Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

The sun had yet to set on the horizon of these south German hills, but the sky had begun to hue in purples and dark blues, the reds and yellows of autumn welcoming its vibrant color freshly new for the day…

It was 5:00 when Ludwig's alarm rang.

He didn't waste a single second to shut it, neither a moment in bed. He stood, got his clothes from a chair, right where he had left it prepared the day before. His usual shower, brushing of teeth and the gel to slick back his hair. No time to waste on vanity, he turned and made his way down these old woodend and creaking floors and stairs. He prepared breakfast, he put that load of laundry to wash, he cleaned whatever he had left in the kitchen the night before, he made sure the TV was still on the usual channel. He began some dusting, some sweeping and it was finally 6:00.

He went down another hall and knocked on the bottom door. "Opa!" He called. The same groan would greet him, sign enough for him to open and make his presence. He helped his grandfather with removing sheets, at the same time checking if they needed to be changed and washed. Na, they were still good. He checked the trash, not filled yet so he could leave it as it was.

“Do you need help?” He would ask when he noticed it was taking far longer than usual for Opa Aldrich to reach the bathroom. He would groan out something unintelligible and wave his hands to say he could do it alone. Ludwig nodded, making sure there was nothing hazardous in the bathroom, his first batch of pills were ready and that all was in its usual place where his grandfather could pick it up from before heading back to the kitchen to prepare their breakfast. He was content with bread, hard boiled eggs and some fruit he had picked just the day before. His grandfather just wanted oatmeal and some freshly pressed juice.

It was 7:00 when Aldrich emerged from the hall and took his usual seat at the table, a newspaper magazine ready for him to start reading, plates presented, Ludwig joined him and they ate for much of it in silence. Aldrich would comment here and there on the news, Ludwig would give his short and to the point opinion and then he would pick their things to wash and put away.

“The forecast said it wouldn’t rain today, so you can sit by the terrace if you want. I have some blankets ready at the bench.” He prepared his cap, gloves, shoes, working pants, and turned on the TV for the morning news. If Aldrich didn’t sit outside with a book, at least he had the rest of the shows of the channel to look forward to for the day.

It was 8:00 when Ludwig headed out the door to start the day on the farm. Aster, Berlitz and Blackie barked loudly in greeting, rushing from their little dog houses right by the side of the large home. Ludwig took his time to greet and pet each of them before they started with the feedings.

He started with the smaller animals, like filling the dogs’ bowls for the morning, then the ducks, the chickens, the geese and the bunnies their greens for the day. Sometimes Rosalin, the largest of the geese, would follow him around expecting more.

“No. That was it.” But of course, such limits she did not understand and on she went following his same thread along with the dogs. He had long ago given up and just left her with their gang.

By 9:00 it was time to feed and check on the chickens. It was one of the animals they had the most of. He had to count to make sure they were all still there, pick up eggs, go to the little cabin by them to store eggs and check if any were ready to bring to the market or if he could use some for the night.

At 10:00 it was time to feed the bigger animals. New hay for the cows, vegetables for the pigs and fresh grass for the goats.

At 11:00 he checked on how the new calf was doing, gave medicine to those that needed it, milked and stored.

By 12:00 it was time to start the tractor and use it on part of the large fields.

He had to be honest, it was one of his favorite parts of the day. He dreamed so often as a child of doing this exactly and couldn’t help the smile that adorned his face.

By 13:00, he stopped and took a break, thinking about what he could prepare for lunch. He was glad for this autumn coolness, refreshing and even alighting his mood…and then he felt her presence, and instantly his face contorted itself to an even stronger grimace and glare. “What is it, Astrid?”

She shook and cowered in her spot, trying to figure out how he knew. “Ha-hallo, He-Herr Beilschmidt! It’s about those sheep you’re thinking of taking.”

“Oh, did your father finally make a good agreement?”

“Ye-yes, he says he can come in on the weekend to discuss it.”

“Hm…” he was getting an idea and it didn’t help to erase his annoyment. “Why couldn’t he come instead to tell me this?”

The young girl trembled the more, trying to find words and gather that courage she had been practicing with her parents that morning. “He-he had to discuss another transaction with Horst.”

“Ah, I see.” He thought that was it, that he could move along with his day and she could go on with her own…but she murmured, clearly with more to say. He sighed, cursing her parents for trying to make an impossible match with them.

“Um, my parents were thinking we could perhaps…have some cake and coffee as well when we came. We want to spend some time with Aldrich too and ask about Gilbert and see how you’re-”

“No,” he instantly denied, getting his prepared bag and making his way down the road back to the house.

For some reason she was not expecting this, taken aback, now chanting in gibberish that Ludwig wasn’t bothering to understand. “That’s-that’s rather rude, we-we do want to know how your grandfather is doing.”

“He’s doing fine. Doctor said this is the best he's been in five years. We believe it has to do with minimizing his stress levels and I want to keep it that way. So, I apologize, but any visitors right now could put that at risk. I'll talk to your father to see if he can come see him another time." And he hurried off, too far now for her to reach.

She sighed in disappointment and turned to leave, Ludwig in turn sighing in relief once he turned to notice that she was exiting the land now, back to her own family's farm just across theirs.

By 14:00 they were lunching on some leftover spätzle with a mushroom sauce.

“-according to the old songs, we are the descendants of the three sons of Mannus, and thus, we were three groups. The Ingaevones, the Herminones, and the Istaevones-”

Ludwig sometimes thought his grandfather was the only person in all of Germany that cared so deeply about the ancient Germanics. Still, it was good to listen and learn. He didn't mind him going on with his latest reads. It proved to him that he was doing all right mentally.

After a short break reading a bit of his own book, at 15:00 he was back outside. He worked what he could on the garden and yard to keep making it appropriate for autumn.

At 16:00 he began checking all the vegetables, picking any late harvest and making sure the plants were still well and ready to continue giving for the next spring.

At 15:00 he checked the small greenhouse. One of his proudest creations. He set it up all himself, being able to grow berries out of season. He even started growing avocado trees, a feat that almost made him cry with pride.

At 16:00, the skies were well darkened, still he sat outside by the terrace wondering if he had forgotten something. Once he made sure he could go back inside the house, he wished his goodnight to the dogs…and the goose… and made his way inside for the night.

His grandfather would definitely be on the TV, most of the time watching some documentary he put on the queue for him. Ludwig made sure he drank his medicine before he would start with dinner.

It was Wednesday, which meant abendbröt. It was a relief, he really didn't feel like cooking.

He placed the cheeses, hams, bread and vegetables on the table (all proud products of their farm), and called his grandfather to come.

It was 17:00 when they began preparing their slices of bread and eating, discussing the day.

"-so I'll arrange to see if Berthold can come see you on the weekend."

"Just him?"

"Just him!" Ludwig demanded it.

"You're not giving his girl the time of day."

"I'm not interested and I want to make it clear."

"Still be polite about it, Ludwig."

"Mhm."

Ludwig continued talking about how everything in the farm is looking and what's happening…the only way Aldrich could be a part of it nowadays.

At 18:00, everything was put away, the table was cleaned, and Ludwig would join his grandfather in the living room to watch whatever they felt like at the moment. That day they settled with watching some war movie that Ludwig placed on the queue some time ago.

At 19:00, exactly like always, was Aldrich's first yawn for the night, meaning he was tired and should get ready to bed. Ludwig paused the movie and suggested they could continue watching some other time. It was time to help him prepare for bed, get the temperature in the room right, covers dusted and cleaned, see if he needed any help with his shower and make sure he took his last batches of medicine.

By 20:00 Aldrich was in bed, a book in his hand which at some point he'll put to the side and then settle to sleep. It was at this point that Ludwig went over to the home PC. He started with checking emails from grocery store chains or offers for a stall for the next farmer's market at the nearest town or even at Munich or Nuremberg. He bookmarked, forwarded or replied to some. Then it was time to check on anything Gilbert related. They usually sat down to talk through camera on Sundays and went on with stories of the week, but occasionally he would send a message, a picture or even a video as was the case today. They decided mostly on sending these things through email so Opa Aldrich could see it too, since he never really learned how to deal well with cell phones, and in all honesty, Ludwig didn't like them much either. Once the video loaded, he opened and clicked play to see what his older brother was up to this time, making sure the volume wasn't too loud.

"Hey! Yo! What's up! Cooming to you here from one of the worst fucking downpours of the century!" It really was the best idea to lower the volume…Gilbert's voice was ever…the potent one.

The video showed a garage of sorts, awfully messed, disorganized…it gave Ludwig a headache. Gilbert panned the camera to a single window, so one could notice that indeed heavy rain was falling in the city. "It leaves me with no choice but to actually spend some time here in the garage. And I wondered, hey, you know, I've got nothing to do, no big projects at work, with things getting colder a lot more is closing, so guess what, I'm starting my own personal project and I send you guys the grandiose start!" The camera now shook as there was just more ruckus as it seemed Gilbert was picking between boxes, putting them all together on a center table. He moved the camera to the farthest end, so you could see him stand proudly, with a way too confident smirk…with boxes of what Ludwig thought was old and dirty junk. “Yes, I know what you’re thinking, Lud. This is all trash. Well no!” He pointed and even slammed the table. “I’m going to turn this into one of the most majestic shit your eyes have ever witnessed! You’ll tremble from amazement! They will speak of this for eternity and speak of me like they do with gods! I swear, you shall be singing my praises in no time.”

Ludwig’s only question was what the hell was he doing, and afterwards silence just came…and now Ludwig wondered if Gilbert even had an idea.

“A motorcycle,” he seemed to interrupt, as if he knew exactly what was going through Ludwig’s head. "I'm going to build a motorcycle from scratch. Gilbert brand! It's going to be amazing and I'll be flooded with offers. No, I'm not making any special prices for my family. You either give me the cash or it's gone forever!" He went and picked the camera again so the focus could be placed on his face and he could address his family properly. "So yeah, I'll let you guys know how it's going. I’m guessing I could finish it for the summer, but we’ll see! Opa! Hope you’re doing all right! And Ludwig, hope you’re doing something fun!” And the video was over and Ludwig had to let himself smile. He did miss his brother sometimes…but at least he made do even with storms in Berlin.

He checked the farm’s facebook account, uploading the last picture he took of the calf and checking on any of the notifications.

The farm was in deep silence and darkness…the only light was that of the fluorescent PC coating the living room with its old decor and old family momentums.

He looked over to the clock above the hall…21:00. He looked down the hall…no trace or sound that gave a hint of his grandfather waking. He looked outside…nothing but the trees, the flowers, the field, and in the distance, the hills and the alpine view.

"Hm, okay," he told himself.

He focused back on the PC screen, bringing the rolling chair closer and opening the incognito tab. He went to YouTube, and in the search bar wrote the name that was like magic to dust color back to him.

Feliciano Valenti.

Instantly his yellow sunshine channel popped up. Along with it were some most viewed shorts with his name. One was showing off an outfit while walking down the vineyards of his own family’s farm, another was him explaining the proper way to fertilize the ground for the best tomato harvest and then a short clip of a cover he had done to Keane’s ‘Somewhere only we know’ with a mandolino of all things. He glowed like a star and already he could hear him singing through the thumbnail. The longer videos that popped up had to do with the farm or a full rendition of a cover song or perhaps him trying his own original music.

He went to his video page to see if he had uploaded anything new since the weekend. Only two videos. Nothing farm related…he hasn’t in about a month, he noticed. But from the ones there, one was another cover video. He connected and put on his headphones, clicked and listened to his rendition of Mahmood’s ‘Sabbie Mobili’. He loved it when he sang in his native Italian and even though he only had his mandolino as an instrument, he still gave it its usual pop feeling with the way he jumped and smiled through at the end of every phrase. Ludwig grinned…he was adorable, beautiful…he had a smile that rivaled the shine of the sun. He then clicked on his next one and already couldn’t hold the pride that welled in him when he began to speak.

He was tuning his mandolino, dusting it, “sì, tutto a posto.” He faced the camera and Ludwig let himself fall breathless, as if Feliciano was staring directly at him, with a knowing smirk as if they were sharing a secret only between themselves. "Ciao a tutti ancora! It's a lovely day here in San Quirico! The kind that makes me want to sing a new song and share it with you all in the hopes that you have just a wonderful day. Julius Roma wrote to me again.” Ludwig didn’t miss the way he breathed out the name, how his eyes twinkled as he took the neck of the instrument, already preparing his fingers while settling the body against him. “The lyrics he wrote this time are about the innocence of first love and how we look behind on it. Exquisite as always and I had to create its melody as per usual. I hope you enjoy it,” he said in earnest as he began the music, and like magic it brought light just as the day that was shown in the video to this darkness.

“There it is again, earthquake on my skin,
Your voice the heat, that cracks it undone,
And there it goes again, I think I missed heartbeats,
Just because it’s you I see, oh, I don’t know,
It’s like love in grade school…”

How lovely he made it sound…he made the words into a garden…and he laid on its grass, taking the scent, lulling him almost to sleep right there.

“...first love it has to be, first you have taken this heart,
Done it is for you, take it as I give it to you…”

And Feliciano let those last words come out in his voice like a blissful wave that settled him to a deep relaxation that made him gone…closed eyes as if the lyrics turned to a love that embraced him. He breathed in and out and was disappointed to be awakened.

“This was so sweet…and I hope it was the same for you. Until next time! Please like and subscribe! If Julius Roma continues to write, then that’s more songs I can share with you all! Bye Bye! Ciao Ciao!” Adorable waves and the video was done, now only but recommendations of others artists that didn't hold at all the charm and whimsy of Feliciano.

He momentarily groaned, but looked back to the clock…he still had time.

At this point he bit his lips, he trembled wondering if he should…but he couldn't take it.

He logged into instagram, he searched for Feliciano Valenti again and there was his account. Back when he first found him, he usually just posted pictures of his scenic Tuscan farm, but after a certain point, he put the focus mostly on him. As time went on, his stylish outfits revealed more skin, more form. Hands on waist practically dancing, raising shirts coquettishly making one want more of what was there. Messed curled hair, sultry eyes, body seeming to dance for passion.

Ludwig licked his lips…hesitantly clicking on one of the links his page offered.

OnlyFans.

He got into the signing in information.

Username: Julius Roma.

Ah…there were three new pictures…and a video.

He started with the pictures.

First one, against a white wall, just a side view, shirtless upper body. It was amazing under the sunlight that came from a window that was not shown. His body was not exactly fit, neither full, he was well formed in his own, arms with only strength to pick an instrument. He looked so soft, so gentile…but then the next picture.

This one…although his center was still covered, the way he embraced that old cello, how his pink lips opened, that slight upward movement of his hips… was still as erotic as if he had been completely naked…as the third one.

Here he gave a powerful lean back, mouth in the midst of a moan, pulling tightly to a red curtain that caressed his legs in a way that made Ludwig grip his hands wishing his own hands could follow that trail.

By now, he was hard. But in seriousness, from an editing, color and shadowing perspective, these pictures were really well done…Ludwig wondered if he did them professionally…and somehow the idea of somebody present for those fueled him in anger. But what was he to expect? It was a guy he didn’t know at all, with an OnlyFans, with who knows how many subscribers. There was nothing he could do about it…but enjoy as the rest.

That's when he went for the video.

He liked how artistic they were…it just wasn't anybody laying on any dirty couch, shouting garbage in a position that looked unappealing and uncomfortable…no, it was Feliciano kneeling, rubbing himself with the red fabric. With the smile, the way he leaned back and the delight in his moans…he was enjoying himself, deeply and true. He had a way of doing so, while also making it a show, a scene that had him putting his pants down, his erection for the air and for his hands to take as he tried to copy Feliciano's own movements, from slow and sensual to quick, tightening and fast.

How he wished he could grip his wave and curled hair into the palm of his hands, pull and take a grasp of those hips to him, and with the thrusting he saw…perfection he tried to copy for himself.

Using the red curtain, Feliciano lay enough on the ground for him to be on all fours, Ludwig knowing what was coming. From some hidden fold he found the red dildo, licking all around in preparation. Ludwig couldn't hold the moan that escaped, quick to put his hand to his mouth and pray that his grandfather hadn't listened. The object went the descent and Feliciano, the cheeky one, with a wink, let it take and dive into his depths, shouting, moving the dildo at a pace that had him getting louder and louder. Now Ludwig wished it wasn't some flimsy dildo…no…he needed to take that thing's place, those movements against him, that voice calling his name. Harder and harder.

He ended up standing, his eyes yet focused on Feliciano's body, his own body jerking towards him in the midst of imagination.

"Più…più…dammi di più."

And his voice…it could have been an insult, and yet it's what always made him cave, made him shout to whatever object was nearest at the moment…this time a towel over the near couch.

The video went on with his angelic noises in the background while Ludwig had coated…this time his pants in white. At least it didn't land on the desk or the ground. He gave himself a moment of relief, taking a seat to breathe and place himself again.

"Oh dio…dio!" Feliciano continued on the screen.

Even if he was sated, he faithfully watched it till the very end. Feliciano came himself, breathing hard, smiling, sending a wink before it was over and he was left with a suggestion to tip.

At this point it was almost automatic. He had already checked the finances to know how much he could spend.

1,600 euros.

All for Feliciano.

Those smiles, the songs…it was all worth it.

He cleaned himself and put his pants back up before he continued. This time he went to his inbox, only one thread in there, Feliciano's. The last he wrote to him was that poem he made into a song. Usually he needed some time and inspiration to write, and sadly this time he had nothing. He scrolled upwards, all the way until a year ago, when he started this.

He has always written poetry, having notebooks filled with them since his childhood. He was always faced with the comment to publish…but he never felt comfortable, especially since a lot of them talked about his experiences concerning how he found out he was gay, and with this little town…not really the best suggestion. Now…his muse was another male, an Italian so far out of reach…sure that he would never have a closeness, a relationship, the only thing that made him bold enough to send them after the many he had written.

At the start, Feliciano had replied with eagerness, with so many questions and curiosities that Ludwig told himself not to give into.

There was no chance, he couldn't, they were practically two worlds apart, it wasn't meant to be anything more, he would just be disappointed by who he really was and he didn't think he could deal with that rejection. Sending him those poems was out of a maddened whim and he didn't even think he would be responded to. The only time he wrote something else other than a poem was simply to tell him that he would rather not reveal his identity, that he was just a fan that wanted to write poems for him since he was his inspiration and Feliciano had been respectful enough to keep it that way. He hadn't expected him to create melodies for them, sing them into masterpieces and have him fawning every night. The beauty, the pride, the smile he wore this late in the night…made him decide he wouldn't comment about it.

He spared a glance at the clock…it was 23:00. Time to take off his headphones, turn off the PC and head upstairs to wash up.

It was exactly 00:00 when he landed in bed, shutting his eyes, ready to do it all over again the next day, instantly starting with dreams of golden eyes and brazen curls.

Chapter Text

The only time his usual schedule would differ, was on the weekend farmer’s market. Sometimes his grandfather and him would decide on taking trips to Munich, Nuremberg, Augsburg or Ingolstadt. This time, they settled on their closest city, and that was Regensburg. After their usual morning, Aldrich would get dressed up in his fancy weekend pants and square buttoned shirt, tie up his…weirdly long hair for someone his age, and wait for Ludwig to get the truck. Usually Ludwig had to pick it up from somewhere on the field after he left it packed for what they would sell in their stall.

It was only a twenty minute ride and they were usually one of the first ones there. Ludwig insisted that his grandfather take the chair he placed for him while he prepared their stall…in a specific order, creating a gradient along with the sizes that made it a splendor to the eyes. On the table was a book with all the animals in the farm, information and prices. Then, to finalize everything, he put up their sign. Nothing impressive, just a dark blue wooden plank that read 'BEILSCHMIDT', and small letters underneath with what they offered. Business was ready to start. The moment Ludwig turned around he had his first customer, another old man asking for a whole paper bag of potatoes. As expected, it was their best. Then they started coming in, Ludwig doing well to keep up. From elders, to small children with their families whose major interest was in the book of animals, to young adults his age who questioned how someone like him could possibly do this job.

He had to admit, as he looked over to the other stalls, he was clearly the youngest seller. Sure, he was with his grandfather, but currently he was busy telling some stories to a group of children and hadn't really partaken in any of the business transactions. Sure, he was eyed from those his age…but he did enjoy this life, the farm, the animals, nature, fresh air…it's what he dreamed about…and he had no desire to leave it behind like most of them did…like Gilbert did. To the big cities, cursed to stay in stuffed up offices following the same monotony. No…this to him, was the life.

The children by his grandfather all chortled at something he said and he couldn't help his own smile as he took a break at a chair between some of their flowers and oils. He went to his phone, posting some pictures to the Facebook group and sending others to Gilbert.

"Grüße, Beilschmidt!" Came the crashing of no other than Berthold, their nearest neighbor, surely for his usual purchase.

Ludwig sighed, raising his head expecting not to see him alone and sure enough, his daughter Astrid was with him. Make up, a far too revealing shirt for this weather, way too tight jeans…for Ludwig to only groan at her direction and then not even stare long enough as she wanted.

"Hey, let me guess, potatoes, tomatoes, sweet peppers and basil." Without even looking, he brought up the bag for him, expecting that to be the end of it, but of all the people for his grandfather to stand for and greet.

"Weimann!" His grandfather called.

"Aldrich! You look better each time."

"Stop this nonsense. When are you giving us those sheeps?"

And they continued a conversation of negotiation in laughs. Astrid had smiled and turned to Ludwig, but he just as quickly dove himself into his phone and didn't bother to partake in whatever his grandfather was deciding. He was sure he was making an appropriate agreement.

Of course, she eventually got bored and left and Ludwig was relieved to look up again. Berthold and his grandfather must have made a finalization that made them content with the way they smiled and shook hands.

"Can you go pick up the sheep for Friday?" Aldrich asked as he took a seat next to him.

"Sure."

"He wants you to at least say good morning to Astrid."

And already Ludwig thought it too much, practically gagging. "Is it really necessary?"

"I want my sheep, Ludwig." It was definite.

He sighed but agreed, turning back to his phone and working on the sales spreadsheet. Aldrich then turned to leave to see what the other stalls offered and see if he could get something, Ludwig insisting he brought his cane and giving him some loose euros to use.

Spreadsheet done, no customers for now, Ludwig looked up to notice that it was indeed a gorgeous day despite the autumn cool. A perfect blue sky with some dusting clouds, he actually noticed the tree they had in front of their stall, large, starting a sprinkling of reds, oranges and yellows. The old gray bricks beneath them, the people walking by, it was all like a simple touch that awoke his mind, fueled it with words and a person that drove all of it until there were words for him yet again. He took out his small, cream colored leather notebook, a gift from his grandfather from last christmas. Simple, yet elegant, with plentiful pages already adorned with all kinds of wonderful words. He took his pen and instantly began.

Everyone around me is at a hollow pace
Trying to measure to a noise
I want your own silence
I want to be with you in it
I want to be above all
Perfect in our heaven
Where I give you all my reverence.

He smiled down, already imagining Feliciano's delight and wonder.

Would he make another song? Would he leave him breathless? Did he wonder about him for as long as he did of him? To the point of poetry in the middle of a farmer's market.

He sighed and stopped to take the breeze that blew by, with it bringing Aldrich with some bags from his spending. Ludwig instantly stood to take those bags himself, appreciating some with snacks to take for what was left of their day there.

They deemed their sales successful as they rode their way back to the farm. They spared some minutes to talk with Gilbert, who had to inform them that he had to go to the hospital after a single knife cut while cooking. Both Aldrich and Ludwig, after a moment of panic, then groaned and berated him to be more careful. Gilbert usually pushed to the side all worries concerning his albinism, now wanting to talk about his blueprints concerning the motorcycle he was building. They had to admit, he sounded really excited and had a great overview in mind. After farewells were given, they continued on with their usual night routine. Aldrich was in bed, Ludwig went to the PC, incognito mode, Feliciano Valenti, OnlyFans, he took out his notebook and began typing the poem he had written today. Sent and close. Off to bed and prepare for the next day.

5:00 his alarm went off.

At 6:00 he went to knock at his grandfather's door, deciding today on some cleaning around the living room and kitchen while he finished.

It was 7:00 when Ludwig realized that he hadn't heard anything from his grandfather's room.

"Opa!" He called, hoping to rouse him then.

He continued with breakfast.

At 8:00, still nothing.

He groaned, knowing this time he had to go in. "Opa, come on, you know the doctor said it's best if you have an early rise."

Aldrich was still cuddled under the blanket, he surely hadn't heard anything.

"Opa!" He went to the bathroom and prepared his usual things, cleaned the room slightly, headed out to take the trash, leaving the door open in the hopes the commotion was enough to finally get him to stand up.

By 9:00, he was still in bed.

"Opa." He was supposed to be heading out to the farm now.

He resorted to taking off his blankets…and that's when he noticed. His chest was not heaving with breath. Cold, no movement, no reaction.

"Opa…opa…" he called, dread filling him now.

He checked for a pulse…nothing.

"Opa…"

Heart failure in his sleep, that's what the autopsy said. At least he went peacefully.

Gilbert booked the quickest train he could manage. He arrived with Ludwig having done most of the cleaning already. They had to either pack, throw away or sell Aldrich's belongings. They managed a short notice funeral, a shock to the town and all the nearby farms and houses. Sure, Aldrich had declining health, but all who had last seen him trusted him to be well, with promise for more years. To make it all the more somber, it rained the day of his eulogy and burial. Yet despite this, many had come to wish their respects, mounting condolences to the brothers.

It had all been so tiring, graying Ludwig to the point that many worried he was getting sick. He told them not to worry, don't bother, he didn't need any new help on the farm, no new numbers, no therapy, no grief counseling, he was fine!

He sat at the terrace stairs, an escape from those words, the bittersweet memories, the realization that now the only family he had was a brother that lived in a city kilometers away. He was tempted to leave the get together at his own home, wander the forests and hills…maybe never return. But it was at that moment that his brother joined him, offering a beer bottle that he did the favor of already opening. He gave up to staying by taking it, a big swig that left Gilbert astounded.

"Yeah, I'm going to repeat what everyone else has asked, and I get it, it's annoying, but, are you okay?"

"I'm fine!" He had always answered, but this time there was spite with it, like burning and fire breathing. He wiped whatever beer from his lips with his own suit sleeve, so uncaring and sluggish that suddenly Gilbert couldn't recognize him.

“Hey, our grandfather just died…it’s perfectly fine to feel, well…sad and depressed.”

And for once, Ludwig let himself cool in a way that let him present that, taking another sip before speaking. “Just…” he gave a strong sigh, “so much suddenly changes. Plans, my own future and my family.”

“I’m alive and well!” Gilbert showcased himself, spreading his arms out and claiming all of Ludwig’s sight.

“Says an albino who refuses to check his blood pressure.”

“Ah, come on, you know I can take care of myself. I’ve lived well on my own these last few years…even with the hospital scares.”

Ludwig didn’t need more stress, turning away, gazing to the darkened distance as if hoping it could give him just the right comfort.

“But…I am worried about you being on your own…and well…dealing with the farm on your own.” Gilbert turned to join his gaze with his brother, not only at the distance, but the immense field that held all the responsibilities of the farm.

“It’s nothing, Gilbert, I can handle it. Opa wasn’t really doing much anyways the last few years…it’s no difference.”

“Are you sure?”

“Positive.”

“You do know I have no problems with staying longer if you want me to. I can call my job and I can do some work from the PC.”

“You’ll delay the work on that motorcycle you want to do.”

“Come on, Ludwig, this is my little brother we’re talking about. I’ll delay it all I want. I need to make sure you’re okay above anything else.”

“Gilbert, really, it’s fine. Right now, I would prefer we go on as we normally do…at least until we read the will.”

“Opa made one?”

“Yeah, we just have to wait a month for the reading.”

“Think you can handle a month then?”

“Of course.”

And Gilbert let himself be persuaded, shrugging, but never stopping his insisting that he would uproot all for him.

Gilbert had just headed upstairs, tired and the heaviness of the loss still harsh. At least he had helped to clean after the gathering they had. Still, Ludwig, ever compulsive, stayed a bit longer making sure everything was spotless, exactly as it was before the guests came. It was about to be midnight when he realized he could head to bed, but as he took a breather near the PC, the small bulbs of the machine seemed to taunt him, call him forward and witness his beloved. Ever since the morning of his grandfather’s death, Ludwig had found no time at all to check on Feliciano.

He sighed, looking up at the clock over the hall…it would soon be midnight. He could spare a glance.

Quickly, knowing how unpredictable his brother could be, he settled with just checking Feliciano’s youtube channel. A new cover song for BANKS’ Beggin For Thread. Incredible, another masterpiece that had him wanting to reach. And then his other new video…he uploaded it that very day.

“Everyone around me is at a hollow pace,
Trying to measure to a noise,
I want your own silence,
I want to be with you in it,
I want to be above all,
Perfect in our heaven,
Where I give you all my reverence.”

He had made it the worth of an angel, smiling for the first time in days, leaning to its lullaby in the hopes he could sleep without the worry of what was to come.

It didn't feel right to masturbate when he was still in mourning, yet he went to his OnlyFans only to check on their thread. Only his poem was the last written after several days, probably one of the longest waits Feliciano had for one. Ludwig, wanting to bring ease just in case, wrote instead a simple message…going against his own rule.

"Relative passed away. My mourning has taken my inspiration. Please give me some time and soon enough you'll have your lyrics again."

He was surprised at how quick the reply was. It was late…he should be sleeping if he was living a healthy lifestyle as he liked to imagine.

"Oh no! That's sad to hear! I hope you're doing okay though. I understand it must hurt so much, but I'm sure your relative spent their time well and lives well in your memories and heart. Take the time to heal. I do love your poems, but it's important you deal well with the passing. Take care and I will faithfully wait here for your lovely words ☺️"

He was an angel…definitely. But even his holiness was not enough to deter the tiredness, the needed sleep.

A last glimpse of the message and he turned off the PC, heading once again to try and get some sleep.

Gilbert left back to Berlin the week after, hesitant, repeating on and on that at any word from his brother, he had no issue returning back to Bavaria to help him how he needed. And Ludwig continued to insist he was fine.

They had cleared his grandfather's presence, only pictures and memorabilia that reminded he was once there, to add to the miss of his mother.

That first morning he had woken up at 5:00 as per norm…only to realize that he was ready to head out to the farm at 6:00…much earlier than any of the animals had been expecting him. He was done much quicker, leaving him with a lot of time to do as he pleased…but it was lonely, empty, being reminded of old ghost stories that kept him awake and downcast.

"No talking, no speaking,
The horizon is now too far, it mocks me with its distance,
It gets ever wider, it wants to choke me,
No crying, no giving in,
I have pride."

He had written one late night not being able to sleep.

"I will challenge the horizon, be its king,
I will age in the heaviness of it throne, tyranny in my gaze,
The horizon will not do me harm, its citizens won't rage me into solitude,
I can't scream, let the horizon end me."

He appreciated Feliciano didn't make these words into a song…despite how he knew he really wanted. He seemed to easily understand that it was pain he was going through, must have easily connected it to that passage of a relative he had mentioned. What would have been an original song from him, ended up being just another cover. Kate Bush's Running Up That Hill, to be more specific.

In his lack of sleep, fear of these dark hills, of the loneliness he felt in them, he slowed in his work in the farm, his graying as the ones the season took as they came into winter, as snow came and buried all and made it all the more difficult. The animals understood more what he denied and they worried, begging for closeness that hoped for healing. Ludwig admitted…it was endearing and he didn't mind the extra time he spent with them, the incredible comfort that he appreciated and gave him energy to keep what he could in the work of the farm.

In the calls with Gilbert, he repeated he was fine, but even Gilbert could tell the emptiness in his voice, the stronger the fault as the days went by.

The only day to break this cycle of emptiness was the hearing of his grandfather's will. Both brothers knew something very clear…Ludwig was going to get everything and Gilbert had absolutely no problem or objections about it whatsoever. It was to the point that he didn't bother to come. Why make that trip from Berlin for something that was already so obvious?

Ludwig dressed himself for that short trip to Regensburg, careful in his drive through icy roads. It had snowed heavily the night before, coating everything in white quite adoring he had to admit. At least it gave him something to do for when he returned to the farm.

It was a modern office in the confines of one of the old timber framed buildings. And here he was with clothes that had belonged to his grandfather in his own youth, looking old fashioned compared to these corporate suits and stares.

"Beilschmidt?" One woman came. He nodded. "Come with me, Herr Straub will meet with you in a moment." She brought him to a white room, a long table, the lawyer and him meant to sit at complete opposite sides. There was a pen and a bottle of water for him. He only had to wait some awkward five minutes for the lawyer to come, bored and surely wanting to hurry along. Ludwig didn't blame him.

"Good day, Herr Beilschmidt. Do you know what you're here for today?" He took his seat and began taking all the papers out to present, the assistant coming to give copies to Ludwig.

"Yes, I understand it's for the reading of my grandfather's will."

"Precisely. We shall begin to read aloud and clarify the words left behind by the late Aldrich Beilschmidt."

In one part, Ludwig liked how quick they worked, in another, it was all so mechanical and empty. He thought he could expect some old caring warmth from his grandfather in his last testament…but it was all just cold political words detailing all the items that Ludwig knew well. As they read and followed along the document, Ludwig nodded quick to everything in the hopes of hurrying along.

"-and thus I, Aldrich Beilschmidt, declare that all of the farmland should be the propriety of Ludwig-" Yes, they were finally at the end "-and Gilbert Beilschmidt."

Wait, what?

"I'm sorry, excuse me, can you repeat that?"

"All of the farmland should be the propriety of Ludwig and Gilbert Beilschmidt."

It couldn't be…Aldrich didn't…

"No…no, there has to be a mistake. Gilbert doesn't even live here. I was always here, I was the one who took care of him and-"

"I apologize Herr Beilschmidt, but here it clearly mentions Ludwig and Gilbert. You can look at the copy yourself."

He looked down and sure enough…it was his name along with his brother's.

"No, no, it can't be! Are you sure this is the only document? Did my grandfather perhaps leave something else."

"No. This was the only document he made himself. We have nothing else." He glared strongly at Ludwig, fearing some sort of violent struggle out of this, but Ludwig just breathed hard as he tried to make sense of it in his head.

This couldn't be real, this couldn't be happening, but a simple grasp at the paper proved it so.

"Can I have some time to discuss this with my brother?"

"What are you trying to achieve?"

"I want the farm only in my name. I adore my brother, but he left the farm years ago and hasn't contributed at all in its care since then. He's made it clear to us that he does not want it or intends to stay and take care of it. If we were to share the name, most likely he will just convince me to sell it and I really don't want that."

The lawyer continued to look bored. "Then that's something you have to discuss with him. We could make a new document where only your name stands but you have to make sure that Gilbert agrees and he would have to come here and be present for it." Ludwig nodded, easing and positive with that prospect. The lawyer stood, picked up the documents and ushered for Ludwig to leave and he did with strong steps meaning to act on this quick.

Chapter Text

Gilbert had actual work from his job. Some tedious documents he hated to do concerning some finances in the archives. It was not a smart idea to keep the blueprints from the motorcycle next to him, taunting with ways he could fix it and make it better and distracting him completely from his documentation. To make it more difficult, it was at that moment he received a call from his brother…odd since he usually didn't like to call outside his usual scheduled times for him.

He picked it up, "what's up?"

"Opa put you on the will."

"Did he leave me his old lederhosen as a cruel trick or something?"

"No, he left you the farm."

"What!?" He shouted, standing and starting a pace. “He didn’t…he couldn’t have…we were dead set that you were going to get everything. Why would he do this?”

“I don’t know, I thought maybe you had an idea."

"No, Ludwig, I have no idea why opa did this."

There was silence, only their breaths and Gilbert's steps as he continued his pace. "What now then?"

"Isn't it obvious? You have to agree and sign before the lawyer that the farm will be solely mine."

"I have to go over there in person?"

"Of course. I don't want to sign it as it is."

"Ugh, fine, I'll talk to my boss and see if I-" he took a quick peek at an old framed picture on one of his shelves, one of him and Ludwig…he had been fifteen and Ludwig was ten. It was in the farm, sitting on the back of the old truck that Ludwig was still using till this day. He was wearing a shirt and pants that surely he had some form of on as they called. He recalled the schedule he had those days he was with him for the funeral…how it's been pretty much the same since they were kids.

Next to that picture were several of his own. From home in Berlin, to his family in Bavaria, but then with friends in Spain, Italy, Greece, Turkey and France. Graduation, work meetings, people he's dated and moved on from, different mechanical projects, even the embarrassing one of pranks that have been pulled on him. They were so vast, different, good times that he spared a smile to. Despite how Ludwig was family, the last one he had left, that he adored immensely…the only pictures and moments he had of him…were all in the farm. And so he thought…did he have any memories of Ludwig outside of that farm?

"Ludwig…when was the last time you weren't in Germany?"

The silence that came said enough.

"Um…I've been to Hidelberg…does that count?"

"I said that wasn't Germany."

"Uh…we’ve been to Austria."

"For Roderich’s wedding, yes, I remember you barely left the hotel or the venue."

Ludwig scoffed, "what does it have to do with anything?"

"Ludwig…are you sure you want to stay on that farm for the rest of your life?"

Usually when Ludwig thought about the farm, he thought of the green, the calm, the sweetness of the animals, the great produce that came that granted him excellent dinners, but in the way Gilbert asked…he thought of the last dark winter days, the loneliness, the fear, gripping and heavy. This…for the rest of his life. Was he…sure he wanted this?

Gilbert continued to hear silence, worried, but using the opportunity. "Ludwig…can we make a deal?"

"What?" Suddenly he was attentive and his anger from before returned.

"Look! I really think you should experience something different than everyday life on the farm. Come to Berlin."

"No!" He instantly denied.

"Come on! It's not like I'm asking you to leave the country. I'm just asking that you come live with me here and experience other things. The city offers so much and you can find something new and just…live your life for once."

"This farm is my life, Gilbert."

"It can't be when you don't know anything else. You know what,” he sighed, “you leave me no choice…I have to do this.”

Ludwig was now terrified.

"If you want me to come over and sign the farm away in your name…" he looked at a random picture he had of the city's skyline, "...then you have to come live with me in Berlin for…seven months."

"Seven months!" Ludwig exploded, ready to throw things.

"Yep! Seven months! If you don't, then we share the farm."

"You wouldn't!"

"I could start an airbnb," Gilbert's eyes practically sparkled.

"No!"

"Try me!"

Ludwig groaned and began his own pace trying to think of something to counter him. "You'll only sign if I go through with it?"

"I promise you that if you do want to return to the farm afterwards, I'll head with you to do the signing."

"Is it a deal?"

This was the seal, the agreement, both hesitating as they thought through it. In the end, Gilbert chuckled, a smirk that Ludwig felt well even with the distance.

"Deal."

7 months in Berlin. He was really doing this. As soon as that call was over, Ludwig took a whole new writing notebook to plan it.

The most important question on his mind was: who was going to take care of the farm in the meantime? The animals and the vegetables and fruit, for so long. The only person to come to mind was that damn Berthold. Actually…to be honest, he was a good contender, adequate and trustworthy…he was just scared he would use it as some way to get him to date his daughter. He had to be careful how he asked.

"You're leaving for Berlin…for seven months?" Berthold couldn't believe it.

"I'm still…shaken from my grandfather's death…Gilbert thought it best I was with him for some time."

"For so long?"

"Gilbert insisted." It was hard to hide how annoyed he was.

Berthold sighed, surely thinking of a polite way to deny him. "It's a long time, Ludwig, and your farm is bigger than mine, plus more animals and produce." There was silence then as Ludwig surely waited for a refusal. "Tell you what, I'll see what I can do. I'll try my best, but it's really likely they'll be things I won't be able to manage. You might have to come at some point-"

"Papa, it's fine! I can do it!" And there was Astrid, intervening…but this time Ludwig was actually relieved about it. Leave it to her massive crush to push her in taking care of a whole farm while he was away.

"Mausi, you know how large the Beilschmidt farm is, I don't think-"

"I've seen the Beilschmidts work on it! I know what to do and I think I can handle it." She was sure and very courageous about it. For once, Ludwig was not so annoyed by her.

"Are you sure about that?"

"Definitely! Ludwig, you don't have to worry about your farm at all for the next seven months. I'll take good care of it and make sure that it is exactly as you left it when you come back." She thought this was some romantic gesture, daring to inch closer and take his hands in promise…Ludwig made sure to keep his hands behind him and to back away…but he did spare her a smile, a breath of relief and confidence.

"Vielen Dank, Astrid. I truly appreciate what you're doing. I'll repay you well when I come back."

She smiled and turned to her father with utter joy. He smiled in turn and surely they thought this a chance…that Ludwig really hoped did not involve his single life…which was unlikely.

He turned, bid them farewell and made way back to the farm to continue his packing. He would send her an email with everything and hopefully she would only reply back with farm related stuff. But….he had to admit this was awfully nice of her and he would indeed repay it by…giving her a souvenir pen or a 'I love Berlin' shirt or something.

The ticket was officially bought and he was set to leave the very first of February. It still gave him a couple of weeks to prepare his bags, settle bill payments, show Astrid around the farm so she really understood all the tasks and for the animals to recognize her. He started going through all those old Berlin tourist books in the hopes that it could better prepare him. He bought a new sleek laptop for himself, walking shoes and coats. All his bags were already organized in a corner in the living room and everytime he walked past them as the day neared…he found himself actually excited.

He had left the farm keys to Astrid that morning, wished her luck and was strict that she only contact him for emergencies that had to do with the farm. She nodded and he really hoped she understood.

It was an eight hour trip by train. He did well to entertain himself with snacks and documentaries on his new laptop. He sometimes wrote on the landscapes he passed, still freshly white from the last fall of snow, until it dimmed and only grayed, as cold but barren despite the villages, towns and cities that were alive in light and movement. Soon they started calling the first Berlin stations and suddenly Ludwig was nervous. Already, from what he saw through the windows, it was a lot of… everything. People, buildings, stores, cars, trains, bikes, restaurants, squares…it was a little too overwhelming…and he hadn't even arrived yet.

Then the main station came. Modern, vast, the greatest reminder that he was kilometers away from the farm.

A black cap that belonged to his grandfather, his black coat and scarf zipped and tight, his two suitcases and bags with him, he made it out the first time onto the platform. Of course, he wasn't the only one, instantly introduced to pushing and shouting as everyone made the space they could take. He was already out of breath finding a center so he wouldn't get trampled by the multitudes that hurried. He grasped to the handles for dear life, wondering if there was still a chance of getting back to the train and forgetting all this.

"Hey! Bruder! Willkommen in Berlin, Berlin, Berlin, Berlin!"

Too late…his brother had already spotted him and he had to be…extremely embarrassing about it. He kept chanting and sprinting towards him like some maniac…it made him want to turn the other direction and hide…which he was about to do.

"Hey, no, come here! Give me a hug!"

Nope, he was already caught, taken in and fine…he needed this hug and so they shared one, warm and nice and it was great to be with some familiarity after the long hours of traveling and reaching such an unknown.

Gilbert pulled apart just to look at him, as if it hadn’t only been mere months since the last time they saw each other in person. "Ah, fuck, you look exactly like Opa…only without the Legolas hair."

"What is that supposed to mean?"

"That you could have done something to not look like such an old geezer…you're twenty-five!"

"I think I look perfectly fine and presentable for my age! Unlike you! You dress like an emo teenager!"

"Hey! Don't diss my Böhse Onkels shirt!"

"Zip up your coat before you get hypothermia again!"

"It was one-" he zipped his coat harshly to point the action well "-time! Come, let's go so we can catch the next S-bahn." Nonchalantly he turned and just motioned to follow.

Was…Gilbert aware of all the luggage he was carrying…and all the people that still walked about? He groaned and followed despite. It wasn't until they got to the stairs that Gilbert realized they needed an elevator.

"I thought you'd pick me up with the car?"

"What car?" He was genuinely insulted he thought he had one.

"You mentioned it from time to time."

"Maybe my job's car, but no, I don't have one. We're taking public transport."

This only made it more terrifying.

His suitcases had gotten stuck at least once in each station they went to, being shouted at each time.

How could the stations be so miserably cold? But the trains themselves almost like ovens from the amount of people squished. They all seemed to glare at the space Ludwig's luggage took and Gilbert just whistled on while Ludwig continued the want to hide.

And finally they arrived at the last station…Hermannplatz. Ludwig had never seen a much more miserable place. It was surely the dirtiest, with the most questionable people.

"Why does the elevator smell like piss?"

"Yeah, get used to that."

With the horrendous sounds that elevator made…Ludwig was terrified they would only get stuck. But once they were out on the square, they were instantly met with a man shitting right on the corner while a couple stood as discreetly away as they could, terrified expressions while they simply waited for the elevator…Ludwig thought the elevator looked much homier now. To make matters worse, once the man finished his business, he turned to them and waved to Gilbert. "Hey, Gil!" "Hey, Ralph!" And he walked away to just sit on a bench like nothing.

Another high populous area, Ludwig debating if it was more than the main Berlin station. They almost got run over as a car dashed…even with the lights green allowed for walkers to cross. Gilbert had the audacity to live up a steep incline, stony and rattling everything Ludwig owned loudly. At least there were way less people on this street and it faced a lovely park.

"All right, we're finally here!"

The building was actually lovely, clean and the staircase was a warm welcome. It was an old design with paintings and even carpet.

"I live up on the fourth floor though…and there's no elevator…" and of course it had to be ruined.

Gilbert finally helped him though and they made their successful climb with not as many bangs as Ludwig expected.

"And voila! My maison!"

Ludwig had lived in a large and spacious farmhouse for many years and so this was… tiny…no maison at all.

What welcomed him was a single hall…that could only take one of them at a time. They had to leave the luggage in the very first room that welcomed them, the kitchen. Small, rustic, a view to the street and park. Only two people could eat there but Ludwig could see all the necessary to have all meals. The next room was a minuscule bathroom, but very modern. Then there were two rooms, one was very obviously Gilbert's with the mess of clothes, the dark colors and he had left his own PC at some gamer streaming and at the same time he was half way through a blog post for his history forum.

"I'll have you know, I spent weeks preparing your room. I ended up having to ask Erzsébet for help…you have to thank her mostly for it," he admitted honestly.

He opened the closed door and introduced what would be Ludwig's home for the next seven months. He was surprised at how light it was, with plants, a wardrobe for him along with a desk, carpets on the old wooden floor, a big window and even a large oval mirror. It was the first beautiful thing he saw in the city.

"It looks incredible," he said as he came in, inspecting it closer, trying to see some trace of Gilbert here.

"Yeah, I'll let Erzs know and then she can annoy me about it forever," he rolled his eyes but motioned for Ludwig to follow him for the rest of the tour…well, what was left, just the living room. Large, with a sofa, shelves with books, large windows, plants, the walls painted a nice homey dark green…it was clean even…not at all what he was expecting from his brother.

"This is…actually nice," he did well to compliment.

"What? You thought I had a dungeon here?"

"Yes…that's exactly what I was expecting."

"Go put your stuff away and I'll order us some pizza, you piece of shit."

Ludwig chuckled but went to do just that. Gilbert knew what he wanted, so he could focus on putting his things away. Clothes and shoes in their place, his toiletries bag ready in the bathroom, notebooks, pens and laptops on the desk ready for use.

You know what…this felt nice, this was comfortable and warm, he could- there was a knock at the door.

"I'll get it!" He offered, rushing with tip in hand, when instead-

"Berlin! Berlin! Berlin! Berlin! Berlin!" He was welcomed with more chants and…a cake...that said 'Willkommen in Berlin, Ludwig!' held by no other than Gilbert's dumbest and the worst of his friends. The French, Francois Bonnefoy and the Spaniard, Antonio Fernandez. They both held identical big smiles despite looking nothing like each other, offering the cake and hoping it would be the great welcome they wanted.

Ludwig groaned, turning, already getting a headache and debating if to slam the door at them. It was at this moment that Gilbert peeked…and he joined in their outrageous smiles. "Ach, Wie süß!"

"My brother made it," Antonio added.

"Cool…but you're not the pizza."

"You ordered pizza?"

"Of course! I got enough for all of us! Come on in!"

Both celebrated, beginning to take off their shoes to make their entrance and Ludwig sighed, having no other choice, moving away to give them the space to come in. He was about ready to shut himself in his new room, but was held by the helm of his shirt, Gilbert sporting one of his rare, older brother glares. "No you don't! Come on, they brought you cake and we have some beers! It's your first night in Berlin, we should celebrate!"

"I saw a guy shit by the elevator."

Gilbert scoffed, "that's nothing! Come, I don't want any excuses! Do you have any idea how hard it is to get Antonio to talk to his brother…and then get him to make cake!"

Ludwig groaned, giving up and following him to the living room where Francis and Antonio were already making themselves comfortable, surely used to these visits.

"I would have made the cake myself, but I’ve been too busy with my play’s review.”

“If you make this night about that damn play again, I swear, I’ll feed you to my neighbor!”

“Do you really still think she’s a cannibal?”

“I don’t think, I know! Now, don’t mention it, Francis! I get it, it’s been months, it’s a lot of work, you’re still waiting for approval. At this point there’s nothing we can do, so let’s just talk about…uh…” What could they talk about?

“Your brother’s horrible taste in clothing,” Francis very obviously pointed to Ludwig, who then glared with insult.

"It does look awful," Antonio had to join.

"Can we stop?"

"Did you take all of opa's clothes?" Gilbert still insisted.

"No! A lot of it is my own clothes!"

Gilbert seemed to ignore him as he looked at his wall of pictures, finding a recent one of his grandfather before he passed, presenting it to Francis and Antonio.

"Oh, mon diu, you are exactly like your grandfather!"

"Wait, wait, wait, wait till you see this one." Gilbert had to go into a cabinet, but he came out with a really old picture, back from when their mother was a baby and their grandmother was still alive.

"Literally the same person," Antonio laughed, not believing it.

"He's my grandfather, it's to be expected," Ludwig tried to defend, not finding at all the joke in it. He was always rather proud that he inherited a lot of his physical traits from him…better than from their own father.

"Gilbert…you look like your mother."

Always a sensitive scar to deal with, but despite, Gilbert smiled and caressed his hair and face, "I know! Where do you think I got my ethereal beauty from?"

"She wasn't albino…"

"I got her face! Shut the fuck up!"

It was at that moment the bell rang with their pizza and Ludwig was relieved for the turn of focus. Sadly he was only granted mere minutes of silence as it was prepared, beer bottles were opened and slices were exchanged. Whenever any of them were not munching away on their food, of course words would interrupt whatever silence Ludwig wanted.

"So are you planning to do something here?" Antonio wondered.

"Are you studying?" Francis asked.

"I really have no idea…I thought about…just staying in here the entire time."

"What? No way in hell! Come on, Ludwig! You have to do something!"

"I'm a farmer…what could I possibly do in a city like this?"

"I don't know, you can get yourself a job as a barista."

"No thanks."

"You can go to the libraries!"

"You can work in one of those city garden projects!"

"You can intern at the archives. I can get you a place easily," Gilbert excited.

"Or a stripper!" Antonio declared, sure it was an amazing idea. He only got glares from both Gilbert and Ludwig, while Francis practically hurled with disgust.

"Really, I…shouldn't do anything that involves me staying longer than seven months."

"But you shouldn't do nothing either."

"Besides, you're not the only one who comes here for a temporary time. There's a lot of stuff that will accept you and let you go once the seven months finishes."

"I don't want to leave anything behind."

Gilbert groaned, "suit yourself! But don't expect I'll just let you stay in here the entire time."

It was a night with perhaps a little too much beer, Gilbert then kicking Francis and Antonio out in the late, dark and cold night, both serenading some old romantic Spanish song. Ludwig could hear them clearly as they went down the streets from up in his room. Gilbert insisted the neighbors didn't mind.

Chapter Text

The next morning, Gilbert somehow thought dancing queen was the perfect song to be awakened to. Ludwig opened his eyes and for a moment wanted to respond to an old need to kill. At least this room was nice to wake up to.

"Morgen meine Liebe!" Gilbert shouted, just crashing into his room like it was his duty.

"Gilbert…what the hell?"

"I'm excited my little brother is here!" Declared like a child.

"I'm not."

"I don't care! Come on, I planned an awesome day for us. I know a place with the best eggs!"

"It's too early."

"It's 8:00, it's way later than what you usually wake up to. No excuses, come on, get up! We're going to make this city our bitch." He tapped the side of the door harshly as proclaim before he left. Ludwig groaned but reluctantly woke up and got himself ready.

He admitted…the breakfast place was nice…even thought they had to go through that dreadful square again.

"So here's the plan! I want to get rid of all the most touristy stuff already so you never have to go back there again!"

"Don't you work in a really touristy area?"

"Exactly! And I know more than anyone that you just have to see it once… and then you're done!"

Ludwig sighed, "if you say so."

"Come, let's go!" Loud, childish, stares were directed at them and Ludwig hid his face in shame as he had to move behind his brother's ridiculous march.

Ludwig was having mixed thoughts on the trains. The further from downtown you were, the more horrendous, unkept, and questionable they were. He truly believed they were using the same carts from the seventies.There were seats he couldn't sit on because of trash, questionable substances and homeless men taking them as their bed. And then clearly the drug induced addict shouting some nonsense about how the immigrants were taking their jobs. But the moment they entered Mitte…these trains were so modern, clean and functional. Sure, you couldn't avoid the weirdo shouting some Russian propaganda, but at least people were more freaked out about it. Gilbert mentioned they were either from outside the city or just foreign tourists.

The Siegessäule, a short walk through Tiergarten, Reichstag, and the Brandenburg gate, where Ludwig was forced to take a picture. He looked so done with life in it…despite how Gilbert tried to get him to smile.

"Are those people taking smiling selfies…next to a holocaust memorial?"

"...yeah…"

"Why are chocolates here so expensive, they sell the same ones in rewe for half the price!"

"And here are the archives I work for!"

"I'll admit, it's gorgeous…but why is that man standing there with an old imperial Prussian uniform?"

"He's our promoter for the museum!...I actually gave him those Prussian flags."

Gilbert fanboyed over a statue of Friedrich the Great, they passed the Berliner Dom, the new Berlin castle and finally it was Alexanderplatz with its fernsehturm.

"Yeah, I'm not going up there."

"Nothing is going to happen! The elevator works really well, the view is amazing…but the food is dog shit."

They ate at a Mexican restaurant for lunch where Ludwig thought was one of the worst waiters he had ever dealt with. Then it was a walk through parks, desolate in this time of winter, but a good stroll was a good stroll, passing by restaurants and stores closing in as it got later.

"Please tell me that was it." He had to admit, it had been lovely, except for some few annoyances, but he was getting exhausted.

"Nope! We're going to Hermanstrasse now for dinner! You need to have your first official Berliner kebab!"

Ludwig had already seen so many shops and he didn't find the big deal in it, but he shrugged and followed his brother anyways. He wouldn't let him have a choice.

If he thought Hermannplatz was bad, Hermannstrasse was way worse. The amount of people trying to fit on this bridge, full of garbage, drunkards and other substances that made Ludwig want to actually go back to the subway.

Gilbert wanted him to have a kebab here?

They went down the street, Ludwig thinking he had already destroyed one of his lungs by the amount of smoke blown onto his face, the people there uncaring of who was passing by.

"Just a bit more! There it is!" Gilbert pointed to one of the many kebab shops on the street.

Why do you need so many in one area? He was trying to understand. But at least this one was further down, big, spacious, clean and warm. It was decorated gorgeously, with jewels and flowering shapes with various pictures of different places in Turkey.

"Hey! Sadiq! I brought my brother like I promised!" Gilbert shouted way too loudly at the only man behind the counter.

A tall, dark and cheerful man turned to them, burly and with strength that betrayed the kindness in his expression. "Ludwig! Aha! So nice to finally see and meet you! Your brother talks well and often about you…drives some of us crazy with it."

"I love this little fella!" Gilbert coed and hugged his brother, spreading kisses to a crouched blushing Ludwig who then looked to the door wondering how he could escape.

"He's taller than you and more than I imagined."

"Watch your mouth, slut! Now! Make me two of your usual special, with everything! Don't hold back!" Gilbert looked way too proudly asking for it.

"Coming right up!" He got his knives, filing and swinging them with such finesse that it was almost like part of some theatrical show. He went to the corner to begin cutting from the large swirling meat, other workers going for the bread and any other ingredients Sadiq would need.

"I’m telling you, this guy has the best kebab in all of Berlin!"

“Oh, stop, you!” Sadiq laughed from his preparation.

"How did you even find this place?"

"Sadiq and I were roommates once!"

"By Sonnenalle. Dreadful little place," Sadiq joined in.

"Heating never worked."

"They refused to come and help no matter the issue."

"Rent was getting higher despite."

"They accused me of being an illegal immigrant to avoid giving me back my deposit."

"Part of the bathroom floor broke down and we then had to actually schedule our showers since there were two other Russian ladies below us and they could see everything!"

"Belarussian and Ukrainian!" Sadiq corrected loudly and intense.

"Yeah, sorry! Anyways, the good thing about it was that Sadiq met his wife through that incident."

A squeal that sounded like it came from a little girl interrupted whatever Sadiq was preparing.

"Oh no," Gilbert knew what was coming.

"Yekaterina Braginskaya!" Sadiq shouted the name like it belonged to some holy goddess, running out of the kitchen to shove a picture of their wedding. Ludwig admitted she looked lovely in that richly white wedding dress, Sadiq clearly crying in that picture. "I live because of her! My Ukrainian beauty queen! My everything! My…my…my wife! All females fall to shame at her!"

"And we never denied that," Gilbert seemed annoyed, clearly having heard all of this…many times before.

"Revere in her presence!"

"We get it! Go make us our food!"

"No respect, no respect!" He pouted as he went back to preparing, the picture held against his chest like treasure.

"Anyways, he moved in with her afterwards and then I got lucky to get the apartment we live in now."

"I'll never get over how nice it actually is."

"A gem in neukölln."

"And here we are!" And Sadiq presented them two plates with their döner. Ludwig had to admit, appetizing and full. "On the house!"

"Fuck that shit, I'm paying!"

"It's your brother's first! It's an honor!"

They fought on and Ludwig just ignored them and went for his first bite.

It was actually…delicious. He liked it. Not the masterpiece he was expecting…but it was a nice dinner, nodding contently.

"And?" Sadiq demanded to know.

"It's good," Ludwig said…too calm for either's liking.

"Good…it's just good?" Gilbert questioned, finding it hard to believe.

"Yeah, it's good. Not the best thing I've ever had, but it's a really nice dinner."

It was not what either was expecting. Sadiq even slapped his arms against his thigh in disappointment before heading back to the kitchen, shouting on in Turkish to the other workers…sounding angry to the point that they were cowering.

"Ah great! You insulted him!"

"But I…complimented it."

"You just said it was good…we're used to people saying it's the best thing they've ever had!"

"I thought he would appreciate honesty."

"Sometimes, it would be great if you weren't so…honest."

The day kept getting confusing.

They finished their döners in relative peace. Eventually Sadiq got over it and joined them for a chat to last a good part of the evening. He headed out with them, meaning to close the shop as he wished them farewell. “And bribing is the secret to me having the best meat on the street!” Sadiq was proud to decree.

“Ethical,” Ludwig sarcastically added.

Gilbert laughed, "you can tell this guy arrived in Berlin just yesterday!"

"Ah, freshling. Enjoy your time here! You're welcome to come any time you want…even though my döner is not good enough for your…high German taste." Ludwig rolled his eyes. "My wife is a kindergarten teacher at a forest kindergarten, she mentions that they often need hands. If you're looking for something to do, you can always inter with her."

"I don't think throwing in Ludwig with a bunch of wild screaming children is a good idea."

Sadiq shrugged, "just thought with the woods and the animals, it would be a good match for him. Think about it, Ludwig."

"Will do." Although it was likely he wouldn't.

He turned and instantly bumped onto another passerby, clutching to his phone, eyes on nothing else. "Watch where you're going!" He shouted.

Ludwig stared behind him confused, uttering simply, "but…you weren't watching where you were going either…"

Somehow that stopped the other, who turned to Ludwig with a vicious glare. "What did you say, asshole?"

"Um…you weren't watching where you were going either."

Both Sadiq and Gilbert cringed and panicked at Ludwig, the stranger stomping and coming back, too near, too demanding…and still Ludwig didn't understand what was going on.

"What? You want to tell me what to do?"

"No, I was just pointing out something obvious."

"You think I'm an idiot?"

"Perhaps you are."

Sadiq and Gilbert groaned.

"Lud, come, let's just-"

"No! I'll show you! I'll show you not to tell me what to do and mess with me." And he threw a very dirty punch that hit nothing, weak and well…embarrassing. Ludwig didn't understand why he still kept trying, clearly missing each hit. Was he drunk? High on some kind of drug? He needed to keep him away and somehow thought his answer was…to punch him back, a direct and powerful hit that had the other practically flying.

"Ludwig! What the hell?" Gilbert shouted, beginning to turn Ludwig away.

"Oh no," Sadiq realized the stranger was coming back despite the swelling bruise on his face.

He kicked at Ludwig, this time actually hitting and to an annoyment that Ludwig couldn't contain much longer.

They swayed at each other, punches, kicks and shouts…mostly on Ludwig's part since the guy kept showing that he really didn't know how to fight.

Sadiq and Gilbert tried to interrupt, other guys from some businesses across also tried as well once they noticed the commotion…but they also kept trying to push the other at Ludwig.

No one really stopped until the police showed up.

Ludwig got his first ever police report…only on his second day in the city. That had been a sign…he would never ever allow himself again to venture out and test his fortune with such a dreadful city.

Three weeks passed and all he ever did outside Gilbert's apartment was grocery shopping. He once tested a stroll on the park right across…only to be followed by a guy that just wanted to politely sell him some drugs. That had been the definite point. He had decided he would spend the rest of his seven months on his laptop, his large book and writing. He checked on Feliciano more often, had even gotten to watching those sewing videos of his he had thought useless for the longest time. Now he was thinking about making his own sweater to fill the time. Luckily his onlyfans also had new…erotic and hot additions that he spent a couple of nights indulging himself to.

“Wait seven I must,
I believe I shall cry,
There is no healing in the freedom out this door,
I don’t have belief,
I don’t have faith,
Poison, knives, smoke, disease, enemies, all this awaits me out the door…”

He had written one night wondering on his woes of Berlin.

“...Escape, heal, protect, survive, triumph,
I must proceed with out this door,
Poison, knives, smoke, disease, enemies,
Come at me now…”

Feliciano later sang, almost daring him to try.

No, not even a song from Feliciano was enough to change his mind.

It had been one of the few days that it hadn’t rained, despite how clouds reigned and made a tempting offer for it, so Ludwig took it as a chance for his daily grocery shopping trip. There was one at a Hermannplatz that was actually really nice…despite that he had to go through that square every single time. There was always a new misery there that made him hate this city more. People were rude and stuck up…but at least he always came back to the apartment with good produce.

On coming back, he was not expecting to see Gilbert there. "Hey, I thought you were going to the garage to work on the motorcycle," he told him, leaving his bag in the kitchen to organize.

"I'm waiting for a part that's supposed to arrive next week. Now, on to pressing matters!” He motioned Ludwig to sit on the other chair in the kitchen. Ludwig sighed but did so, not expecting anything he would like. “Ludwig…soon your first month will be over and I’ve noticed that you haven't spent your time…well.”

“If I’m being honest, I’m terrified of leaving your apartment.”

“Bro, the city is not that bad.”

“Let’s see now, I’ve been peed on, chased to buy drugs, almost got run over, and of course, almost got beaten to the point that the police had to come. I had a clean record, Gilbert…clean! And now that incident has ruined me,” he slumped, like the city already had him defeated.

“Oh come on, I can assure you no one is really going to care here.”

“In Berlin perhaps, but back at home, I can lose clients because of that!”

“That won’t happen if you add something new to your resume.”

“I’m not doing anything here, Gilbert! I’m only here to fulfill my part to get the farm, nothing else.”

“The reason I made that agreement with you was so you could experience other things! Staying in my apartment and only going to the store is not that!”

“It’s…it’s…comfortable…and safe…”

“Well start getting out of your comfort zone! I’m not letting you waste your time away here. I swear, I’m going to-” there was sudden loud banging at the door.

“This is urgent! Open this instant! I have news to bless your pitiful existences!”

Francis.

Gilbert sighed…for some reason not being able to refuse visits. "We'll keep talking later," he said before he stood to get the door.

Francis barged himself in, pushing Gilbert out in the process. "Gilbert! God has finally blessed me with something! Oh, I could…compliment your awful rug in my happiness." He truly was the image of elation.

"Hello, Francis," Gilbert greeted sarcastically, then noticing that two others waited.

"Yeah, we're here too," and there was Erzsébet with Liên.

Ludwig recognized her voice and peeked in, for once a smile at a visitor with a little wave that made Erzsébet squeal.

"Aahh! Ludwig! It's so good to see you here!" She went and hugged him and Ludwig swayed with her in one. "I'm so sorry I haven't been able to meet with you, just been really busy with Francis and the play. This is Liên by the way. We're both producers for it."

The woman came forward and introduced herself with a short wave. "Yeah, sorry we're coming on short notice like this, but Francis insisted he wanted to come here first with the news."

"The play got approved!" He shouted, with jumps and dances…in this very small hall.

"What? Congratulations you guys! Didn't doubt you for one bit!"

"You always doubted us!" Erzsébet reminded angrily.

"You insisted we didn't mention it because you repeated it was bound to be a huge failure," Liên added.

"So you came to drink as celebration, I see!" Gilbert hurriedly changed the topic, making a quick turn to the kitchen to get the beers.

"In part, yes, but also, we need some help."

"I already gave you and approved the historical accuracies. It was hard to get the extra time to work on that by the way!"

"Yes, yes, yes and I am forever grateful. But I remembered a detail about your dear little brother here and I came as quick as I could to make sure I snatched him."

"Francis, what do you want?" Ludwig was already annoyed by whatever it would be.

"I need a writer!"

"What?"

"Your brother once mentioned that you write."

Ludwig spared an angry glare at Gilbert who whistled and hid his face in the fridge…focusing on getting the bottles… furthest back.

"I don't do theater writing."

"Doesn't matter! I'm in desperate need."

"The committee that approved us says that they want positions and crew for what Francis is demanding as a final result. They asked for a writer…and we need to give them names for Friday," Erzsèbet explained.

"Wait, you created a show…without writing?" Ludwig was incredulous.

Francis scoffed, "it's alive in my mind, that's what matters!"

"If you don't write anything down, it's just a massive mess."

"And that's why we come to you… to try and make sense of it!"

"I really don’t want to, Francis.”

“Please, just listen to the idea and our plea! You will be paid and recognized!”

“Francis is right. The pay is above the usual average and if it succeeds, your name will be known well in all kinds of media outlets. Please, just…let us try to convince you,” Liên pleaded in a much senseful way that had Ludwig nodding and thinking.

He sighed, “fine…what is this idea about?”

Gilbert groaned from the fridge while Francis gave a less than manly shrill. “Come, come, come, I shall perform it for you!”

Erzsèbet and Liên shrugged, used to this.

The three began taking their coats, scarves and boots off, then making their way to the living room while Gilbert arranged the drinks and snacks, murmuring complaints the entire time. Indeed as if they were at the theater, they put themselves as spectators, Francis making a stage. He made sure all were sitting quiet, and that Gilbert had finished getting all the things before he began. All lights were turned off, the single lamp there made the perfect dim.

“Berlin! The year is 1740!”

“Oh, here we go again,” Gilbert slumped, ready.

“There is word of a comet coming! Is it a sign of prosperity? Is it a sign of bad omens?” Francis had some blue and red cloths that he pulled from his sleeves that he used to represent each, throwing them in the air to land uselessly on the ground. “No one knows! The children insist it’s good! The adults believe it will bring a curse! But it is both!” He shouted high to the point that Ludwig was actually startled. “You see, the comet is alive! It takes the form of a beautiful young woman,” Francis swayed and moved about as if trying to present this image of beauty he wanted to convey, “who makes the lavishes feast for the spirit dwellers of her comet home. But you see, she doesn't want anybody else but the spirits to take part in her feasts, so when she passes worlds, she makes terrible curses and misfortunes and demons to scare off anybody who would dare come close and take part!” He stomped and hit as a representation for those evil things, Gilbert worrying he would knock off something…again. "But our main character!"

"Whose albino!" Gilbert interrupted proudly.

"Shut up!" Francis threw one of the cloths at his face, insulted that he dared make his unruly presence in his performance. "Yes, our albino main character dares to go against the warnings of the city and go out as the comet passes. He sees the demons! The monsters and beasts!" Leaps of terror. "Yet he survives it all and is able to be present for the beauties! The endless wine and food! The beautiful people in dresses and suits beyond comparison! Enchanting music and dancing! But there is a curse!" He shouted yet again.

"Can you stop doing that!" Ludwig shouted back.

"I'm going to ignore your pestering!" He scoffed. "Anyways, what the curse does is take him away from his home and family. Out into space! Sure, he will be part of the feasts forever, but soon he gets tired from it, insane, poisoning the event for others until it is a dread that drains the comet of its incredible lifesource. The main character plans an escape for when the comet returns to Earth almost three hundred years later! Seeing his wish and hating what he has done to her, the comet frees him in an ultimate show that will leave Berlin blinded in amazement!" Francis shined, already envisioning it.

Erzsèbet and Liên began clapping, slow, unimpressed, yet Francis bowed still as pridefully as if he was telling it for the first time.

"And that's it?" Ludwig questioned.

"Yes, that's everything!"

"It's a musical, Ludwig," Erzsèbet reminded.

"What?" Somehow it made it more difficult and insane.

"What Francis told us is just the story. There's the songs, the dances, the costumes, the scenery, the orchestration, press" and he knew Liên could go on and on.

"Hold on! I would just be doing the writing right? Just organize the dialogue and the events."

"And also write the songs."

"Huh?" He thought it too much.

"Relax, Ludwig. I've seen your stuff, this should be a piece of cake for you!"

"Gilbert!"

"Don't Gilbert me! This is a great opportunity for you! You get to do something you love, make a name of yourself and get paid a lot!" He tried to convince.

"I've just never done something of this magnitude! I don't know if I'll do the proper job…I don't even think I'm qualified."

"Relax, most of us aren't," Erzsébet assured.

“I'll be honest with you, most of us are just street performers. The committee is simply looking for something simple and low budget to keep the theater building running for the next few months until they organize themselves for the next classy and big name show and then put us in the trash," Liên brutally admitted.

"You call the idea Francis has simple?"

"The committee doesn't think we'll pull it off."

"Imbeciles!" Francis cut in.

"You don't have to write us something that can get nominated for an Oscar, just something that we like, can make us smile and keep our show in place," Erzsébet smiled.

Ludwig turned to Gilbert, glaring, blaming him for this.

"What?" Gilbert questioned, not understanding it.

"I'm not doing it."

"Oh, come on!" Gilbert stood, more insulted and saddened than the others. “This is something for you to do while you’re here!”

“I’m slightly angry you even told people I write. You know I don’t like making my writing public.”

“In his defense, he only mentioned it once and I just happened to remember it,” Francis cut in.

“And if you want to stay anonymous, it is a possibility,” Liên suggested.

“Only to the public though. Sadly we can’t hide it from the crew as we all need to be working together,” Erzsébet added.

"That's still more than my comfort."

"If you're afraid about-"

"Don't!"

Gilbert was respectful enough to not go further down that line, grunting before going down another. "Ludwig please! This is something for your own good!"

"I…I…I…" Ludwig could't find any more excuses…and Gilbert was left out of options.

"For the farm!"

"What?"

"Do it…or I'll ask for thirty percent ownership of the farm…that's enough to start my tour campaign!" He absolutely wondered about it.

"Are you really going to use the farm like that each time you want me to do something?"

"If it helps you out…then yeah."

Ludwig was ready to complain but Gilbert made sure to talk higher, faster and above him. "Look! They'll let you be anonymous and we can talk and see so not all the crew knows you're the writer. It's good pay, you'll only have to go there maybe twice per week until July."

"Maybe less," Liên added.

"Good! And I'll take that as enough for you to do in the city, and I won't annoy you with anything else again, okay?"

It would get Gilbert off his back about this was a clear decider, suddenly his next six months looking much easier and faster to go by. Sure, he had to professionally write, but if it was not as often, then he could deal with that those few days and then go back to wallowing in his cave.

"Fine…I'll do it." It was done. The four cheered and celebrated, much to Ludwig's indifference.

"Wonderful!"

"We'll add you to the list," Liên took out a tablet to do just that.

"And your place at the party," Erszébet shouted.

"...what?"

"We're having a party at my place this weekend to celebrate the acceptance of the play, plus for all the crew to meet and get to know each other. You'll get to see who plays the main character and the comet!" Erszébet tried to make it exciting but it just made Ludwig dread and already regret his decision.

"Honestly, it could help you with the writing," Liên added.

"I'm not going…"

"Eh! No! Definitely he's going!" Gilbert cut in.

"But…Gilbert…" had he forgotten how terrible he was at these kinds of gatherings.

"I'm coming too! I'm the historian which makes me part of the crew."

Erszébet sighed, "yes…he's supposed to go to the party…after I promised myself I wouldn't let you near my house again."

"I promise no more harm will come to any pianos again."

"You better! Roderich still won't forgive you for that!"

"We'll be fine! It's something different and you'll get to meet a lot of my other friends!"

Ludwig sighed…not at all excited.

Chapter Text

Erszèbet lived pretty far from the center of Berlin, nearer to the Grunenwald forest, on a street with large and pristine houses. After a month of Gilbert's small apartment, they were mansions. She did well to be married to a world renowned pianist like their cousin Roderich. You could tell her house was the one with the party, with all the lights, loud music and large gathering of people both outside and inside. Ludwig would have run back to the station if Gilbert hadn't taken a sudden grasp of his arm.

"Relax. I'll be with you the entire time. Like I said, just one drink, you get to see who plays the main character and the comet and then we leave, okay?"

"Got it…" he hoped that at most it would only take thirty minutes.

They made their way past the gate, a group chatting on by. "Hey! Gilbert! Is that your brother?"

"Yes! Look at him! Isn't he a splendor!" He presented as excessive as always…Ludwig should have told him to avoid that as part of the deal.

"Definitely! Nice to meet you, Ludwig!" The group was kind enough to smile and wave at him. Ludwig gave a sheepish wave back.

"Yes, yes, good, but come, we're not wasting our time with the Nordic five! They're just some of the dancers." He pushed him through what was starting of the thick, going to the closet to leave their coats and scarfs before they came into the main staircase. Many greeted, Gilbert offering them waves, stopping sometimes to just boast on how he started his work on the motorcycle and to introduce Ludwig…who after an awkward smile would stare down at his watch timing how long it's been to excuse it well for when he decided to leave. Finally they made it to the bar Erszébet prepared, where she, along with Liên, Francis and Antonio waited, greeting them and taking a seat, drinks given and Ludwig could scratch it off the list. He just needed to see the main character and the comet and he could ask Gilbert to leave. He wished they could hurry to do that instead of wasting their time on conversations about preparing movie nights and who should be the next James Bond.

Ludwig checked his watch…he had been in the party for an hour now…dreadfully more than he had wanted.

"Hey! Ivan! Natalya!" Gilbert suddenly shouted.

A pair of siblings…they were surely siblings with the uncanny same platinum blonde hair and intense blue eyes. And although the woman was much smaller than the man, there were still many characteristics that were pretty much the same.

"I hope you didn't call us here for something stupid," Natalya was already annoyed despite.

"Is my brother here a stupidity for you?" Was his way of presenting, Ludwig rolling his eyes, sighing with disgrace.

"That depends," she turned to him, "is your idea of fun taking a bunch of birds in an attempt to tie them to a plank and fly off over to Poland?"

Ludwig turned angrily to Gilbert, "did you seriously try to do that?"

"I was really drunk."

Ludwig turned to them, "no, that is not a fun idea."

"Hm, I did want to meet the person who surely inherited brains in your family," Ivan commented.

"Hey, of the two of us, I actually have a masters!" Gilbert shouted.

"He's right, I just have a farm. He also has a brain, he just…seldomly uses it."

Gilbert took that as enough defense from his brother. "Anyways! Ivan here is going to play…uh…Francis what's his name?"

"I actually don't have one yet."

"I suggested Isidor," Ivan said.

"No, no, no, that's not it!" Francis shook.

"You don't even have a name for your main character?" Ludwig was incredulous.

"You're the writer! Make it up yourself!"

It only took Ludwig a couple of seconds of thinking. "Lorenz."

"Lorenz it is! Yeah, Ivan is playing him! Ludwig is going to be the main writer," Gilbert explained.

This guy was playing the main part? He looked so large and potent…not at all how he pictured Lorenz in his head. Being honest, the role would have better suited Gilbert…being albino and all. At least Ivan was pale and blond enough to pass as one, surely the makeup department would deal with the rest.

"And Natalya here, his sister, will play the comet."

She did have the beauty, her own paleness a sort of enchant that could act well with the lightness he imagined of the comet. Still…she looked rather small and too thin…not at all the striking galore that would have Berlin on its knees as Francis intended.

"Ah, so you will make the words that come out of our mouths," Ivan said.

"It's a pretty big task. Do you really think you can handle it?" Natalya ever so doubtful.

"Ludwig is going to blow us away."

"For everyone's sake, I hope so," Ivan left it like a warning, before he turned away elsewhere, his sister following behind in a way too prideful strut.

"They're…really playing the two main parts?" They would not have been Ludwig's ideal choices.

Liên sighed, "the best options at the moment. Lorenz actually has a lot of ballet numbers-" there was ballet in this damn thing? "-and Ivan is the best in the city."

"And a beautiful voice," Francis had to admit, "...unlike his sister."

"She…doesn't sing?"

"I mean…enough for the part, I guess," Erszébet tried to excuse.

"Ivan said he would only join if we gave her a big part. The comet was the only other big part we had, and, well," Liên shrugged.

"I would have much preferred his boyfriend," Francis pointed to Antonio, who startled at his sudden mentioning. "Truly a voice to bring entire cities to life," he went on praising. "But alas, he had to go to Italy for family matters…a waste."

"Hey, Francis, you know the situation he's going through is hard," Antonio saddened.

"I know, but now my play won't know his magnificence."

Antonio sighed and settled with going elsewhere in the party, having enough with the show and the downplaying of his boyfriend's situation.

Ludwig felt pity for all of them…and partially for himself, since this was what he had to work with now.

They changed the topic to some other show Ludwig didn’t really care about, deciding on only checking his watch. He stayed some twenty more minutes to finish his drink and let it rest before he let Gilbert know.

"Hey, I had my drink, I saw who's going to be Lorenz and the comet, can I leave now?"

Gilbert sighed, "fine, it's only fair. You can-"

"Erz! Francis! Gilbert!" Antonio suddenly shouted, emerging back from the crowd at the main entrance room.

"Hold on a second. What?" Gilbert shouted then along with Erzsébet and Francis.

"He's here!"

The three gasped simultaneously…somehow knowing exactly who Antonio was talking about.

"Angelino?" Gilbert was about to cry from joy.

Antonio nodded, with the same excitement.

The three instantly squealed and stood, Francis and Erzsébet fighting on who would meet this person first as they made their way to the entrance.

"Ludwig, I know you have to leave, but at least let me introduce you to one last person, please, okay, okay," and he was off before Ludwig could give him a reply.

Ludwig groaned and turned to Liên, who was the only person who stayed, playing with her drink. "Aren't you going to greet the guy too?"

She laughed, "he's coming here anyways, but I understand why they got like that. It's difficult to get a hold of him. To be honest, I'm surprised he accepted to be one of our stage designers. Glad too, his art is amazing."

"An artist then?"

"Yeah, but I think he does other things too. Don't know too much though."

Francis, Antonio and Erszébet took their seats again, snickering like children, Gilbert coming behind him in the same state. Ludwig rolled his eyes as he took some last sips from his drink.

"Okay, okay, okay, let me calm down, I need to introduce you both maturely, this is monumental."

"I can also introduce myself, Gilbert," the person laughed and Ludwig's eyes widened in shock.

That voice, that laugh…he had heard it sing, had heard it moan out, he could recognize it anywhere…but no…no…it couldn't be. It was a trick from his mind, perhaps a similar tone, distorted in this plentiful of voices along with the boom of loud music to be like his. It was not possible, it couldn't be…he was supposed to be in Italy, far, practically in a distant world…they were never meant to meet, they were never meant to coexist in the same city. He will turn and it wouldn't be him…it wouldn't be him.

The bright brown curls, the big golden eyes, the tan skin with a face of kind youth with Roman strength, that pearly smile that had taken him from the very first video he had seen.

"Ludwig, this is-"

"Feliciano," he interrupted, coming forward to take his hand in an energetic shake, "I'm Feliciano Valenti."

It was him. It was Feliciano…in front of him…holding his hand, smiling at him. He couldn't believe it…he was more enchanting than what he saw on screen, so much kinder, his smile much more potent, beautiful and just so much more than he could take at the moment. He shut down, his glass fell on a hard knock on the table and it was like he had fallen unconscious… while still being wide awake…and still keeping a hold to the shake Feliciano had.

"Is uh…is he okay?" He began to worry at no response…yet a strong hold of his hand.

"Uh…" even Gilbert began to get concerned, coming nearer, snapping his fingers in front and yet nothing. "Ludwig…Ludwig…Ludwig!" He ended up slapping him.

Ludwig grunted, shaking his head. "I…uh…I have to go home," he managed to finally utter.

"Yeah, I'm coming with you, you don't look too good."

"Are you gonna be okay?" Feliciano wondered and cared so sweetly…and it was not helping with Ludwig's predicament.

"Ye-yes-yes! I'll be fine! Just uh…maybe had a little too much to drink."

"You only had one glass," Antonio noticed and Ludwig wanted to slap him.

"Maybe you got really bad beer. Come on, let's go. I'm sorry about this, Feli."

"Gil, it's honestly fine, you go on right ahead! I hope you feel better, Ludwig!" He waved and wished so sincerely and Ludwig was about to barf.

He waved to him, wished him well…said his name. These were simplicities he had thought never to be possible and they were becoming a wonderful reality…and he was just getting literally sick from it.

Gilbert dragged him along as if he was another drunkard in the city and that made him feel worse.

Gilbert was preparing a hangover breakfast tray. He didn't know if what Ludwig got was a hangover or not, but it was something sweet, a nice touch he enjoyed making for anyone. He was just arranging the pills into a heart shape when the crash came, heavy footsteps and Ludwig was at the kitchen door. He didn't bother to clean up or change…he just came to Gilbert with messed hair and his pajamas.

"You know Feliciano Valenti?" He demanded to know instantly.

“Well, good morning to you too!” He was slightly annoyed that the entrance he was planning was ruined.

“Gilbert, how do you know Feliciano?”

“I'm a little freaked out about this.”

“Just tell me!”

“Ugh, fine!” He put the tray down on the table, deciding to just give the glass of water and pills for Ludwig to take. “Roderich did an exchange program in Italy once. He happened to stay with Feliciano's family. They got really close. Feliciano and his brother learned everything about music from him. They stayed close and I happened to meet him one of the times I went to Austria. Super sweet, really cute, shity dad.” He went to take some juice to pour and drink as a break. “His parents are getting divorced right now and it's just a flat out war as they decide who gets everything. The family's farm is supposed to be the mother's, but the father wants to take it all out of spite. Wants to leave them with nothing and is doing everything he can to ruin whatever chances they have.”

That…that was awful. Feliciano…hadn't mentioned that…anywhere at all. He shone with such joy and composure that Ludwig thought nothing was ailing him. And to think he was so close to already knowing him.

“As you can expect from a little village in Italy, it's extremely religious and they just forcibly outed Feliciano as bi and it's one of the things his dad's lawyers are trying to use against his mother. He had to leave so it can settle for a bit before they go on. His boyfriend-” a shattering, piercing and much more hurtful than he had anticipated. Of course someone like Feliciano had a boyfriend…it was only obvious. He sighed away whatever pain. “-has a flat here in Berlin and invited him to come stay some months ago in the meantime.”

At least it explained why he hadn't been filming on the farm lately. “That was…nice of him,” he forced out.

“Yeah, but the dude is an asshole and we're trying to get Feliciano to break up with him.”

“...huh?”

“Yeah. They met because the dude is really good friends with his dad of all people. He's really controlling and doesn't even let Feliciano go out. We honestly think he's using Feliciano to get information over to his dad and is trying to get the farm as well, but Feli keeps denying everything.” Gilbert noticed the juice was gone and grimaced. “Anyways…how do you know about Feli?”

Ludwig was startled out of his wondering on the situation. “Oh, I…uh…” it would be embarrassing to let Gilbert know he was an admirer of his YouTube channel, that he secretly wrote him poetry and that seeing him was practically part of his nightly routine…now that he thought about it, it looked like the behavior of a stalker, so definitely he was not going to tell Gilbert. “Um…”

“Oh…I think I know…”

Ludwig panicked.

“You follow his onlyfans?”

Ludwig flushed and shouted, “no-no-no! I don't!”

“Look, Feli is going through some hard shit and his onlyfans is how he makes a lot of money to deal with a lot of stuff. I won't judge you if you don't judge him.”

“Gilbert, seriously-”

“I totally understand…Feli is hot as fuck.”

“Gilbert, please-…wait…you follow his onlyfans?”

“Of course! I tip him some eight euros everytime.”

“Eight euros only? That's practically nothing for what he does.”

“Oh, then what do you tip him?” Gilbert challenged.

“One-” he noticed his mistake, seeing it with Gilbert's smirk. “Shut up! Let me have breakfast!” He refused to look at his face as he went along preparing a plain müsli.

Gilbert just laughed and was about to ask him about what happened last night when the ring from the main door came. “Uh…who was coming today?” He was trying to remember as he went to the phone to click open, deciding on getting ready while still trying to remember.

Ludwig thought it was perhaps Francis or Erszébet or even Antonio so he didn't bother to get ready. Most likely he would just lock himself in his room afterwards and wallow over his meeting with Feliciano and everything he knew now. The knock on the door came and Ludwig offered to open it for Gilbert.

“Oh! Ludwig! Ciao! Buon giorno!” And it was him again! Greeting him already with such a big smile and eyes and Ludwig…was still in his pajamas, oat milk tainting his lips, his hair a wild disarray and he was just standing there gaping like an utter fool. Feliciano looked well cozied up and still gorgeous even in his heavy coat, scarf and beanie.

Gilbert took his peek and smiled. “Oh right! Our flute lessons! Come on in, Feli. We were just talking about you!”

Ludwig growled and wanted to punch him.

“Really?” He still smiled and wasn't at all suspicious, making his way past Ludwig sparing him that grin, starting then with taking his coat and scarf and Ludwig…still couldn't keep his eyes off him…he really had to stop.

“I-I'm really sorry about yesterday I just…had a really bad beer,” he tried to excuse…he still tried to get over the fact that he was talking to him.

“Don't worry about it, it can happen. At least now we get to have a proper meeting. So, Ludwig, your brother and cousin talk wonders about you and it's honestly an honor to finally meet you. How have you been? How has your time in the city been?”

Suddenly all he had was love for this city, love for his near and distant family. “It's been…okay.” He couldn't remember all the horrid things that have happened to him.

“Francis said you're going to be the writer for the play.”

“I had to beg him to accept,” Gilbert added from the living room still arranging.

“Yeah…just…never done anything like this before and to be honest, I'm kind of nervous about it.”

“What do you usually write?”

And Ludwig froze, realizing he couldn't possibly say poetry. No…he had no intention of telling him he was Julius Roma and leaving any hints about it. He hadn't thought Feliciano counted as part of the crew who would know he was the writer.

“Uh…short stories,” he suddenly came up with, Gilbert stopping what he was doing to send him a questioning glance.

“Then there's nothing to worry about! This should be perfect for you! You have to let me read something from you at some point.”

He already did…he made whole songs, but Ludwig could only sigh and tell him, “I'll see when I can.”

“That's nice…now, Feli! You have Fiorenzo with you?”

Feliciano took out a small black case from some hidden compartment in his coat, proudly and with such an adorable smile that it kept Ludwig in the hall.

“You said we could finally learn to play Bohemian Rhapsody!”

“Feli, I'll be honest, I forgot we even had a lesson today.”

“Come on,” he groaned out like a child.

“We'll go through the basics and see if we haven't angered my brother out of the apartment by then.”

“I…I don't mind.”

“Look at your luck, Feli!”

“All to play Bohemian Rhapsody!”

“Well then, come! I already settled everything.”

Ludwig went over to his room to change to something more appropriate, all the while they filled the apartment in simple little songs…well and beautifully done. His brother did play really well…it was one of the few instruments he had bothered about growing up. He went to the bathroom and actually did his hair, Gilbert missing a note when he noticed that he came to join them in the living room, making himself comfortable on the couch with one of his notebooks. Feliciano was confused at this sudden silence from him.

“You…want to stay here?” Gilbert questioned.

“Is…there an issue? I mean…I could leave if you rather practice alone.”

“It’s just-”

“Aw, let him stay, Gilbert! It’s like having an audience.” Feliciano excited and Ludwig told himself to calm his heart. “I’m going to blow him away with my rendition of Bohemian Rhapsody.” He was so determined and Ludwig was touched…even though he had already blown him away a long time ago.

GIlbert sighed, “if you say so, then let’s just keep going and maybe you can finally learn it.”

Feliciano squealed and they went along with intense focus and growing mastery. Ludwig found himself with inspiration, his pen running well on the paper, almost to the very rhythm of the music they created. Sometimes they would stop to point out or for Gilbert to actually teach Feliciano something, but done so serenely that it didn’t break Ludwig at all from his reverie. This was…really nice.

“So,” Gilbert clapped his hands. “Ready to learn Bohemian Rhapsody?”

“Yes, yes, yes, yes!” Feliciano shouted with such elation that Ludwig let himself the raise of his eyes at the scene to chuckle. Gilbert didn’t miss it.

“Which part?”

“Oh, you know well which part I want.”

“Say no more!” Gilbert stood and started the famed ‘I see a little silhouetto of a man’ in his flute rendition. Passion and movement and energy as he went through. Feliciano was dazed in amazement and Ludwig…was pretty much in the same state…although he was also concerned.

The flute did a good finishing of ‘Just gotta get right outta here’ and Gilbert made an intense bow that almost made his head land on the ground. Feliciano clapped and jumped, while Ludwig gave a frozen stare still trying to wonder what just happened.

“Per favore! Teach me, teach me, teach me, teach me!”

“Do not worry, kleine! We shall start immediately and-” there was a sudden beeping…coming from Feliciano's watch. His excitement and light instantly went out the moment he read whatever notification came.

“I'm sorry, Gilbert…but I have to go now.” It was a sadness that well spread across the flat. “But…I talked to Keron, and I can now come back here as often as I want. So we can go back to doing the weekly lessons like we used to!” The prospect was enough to bring back Feliciano's excitement, although the name mentioned made Gilbert anger and roll his eyes. Ludwig guessed Keron was Feliciano's boyfriend.

Gilbert gave Feliciano a sigh, “fine. We can actually focus on learning Bohemian Rhapsody for next time.” And Feliciano was back to jumping, smiling and hopeful before he went and began to pick his things. “And what were you so focused on writing there?” Gilbert wondered at Ludwig.

“Stuff for the play. Some dialogue, some scenes…I actually have the lyrics to the last song done.” Even Feliciano perked in massive interest.

“Wow!”

“That's amazing, Ludwig! Can I see?” Feliciano asked so cutely and Ludwig was near to caving.

“I'm sorry…but I have to go through some editing still.”

Feliciano pouted, but nodded. “Hopefully I'll get to hear it soon for rehearsals.” He went to the hall to start getting his clothes ready, and as Ludwig watched him…his simple actions, plus his melodies from just now, still gave him ignite, another string of words for him that Feliciano would surely be getting from Julius Roma soon. He promised himself to gift him words tonight.

“I'll see you next week, Gil?”

“Definitely.”

“And I'll be seeing you too, Ludwig?”

And he turned to him and Ludwig smiled with a, “yes, you will.” He didn't think he would ever see him smile at the simple idea of just seeing him.

With Feliciano packed and ready, he threw them both delightful kisses before he was out the door, Ludwig focused on even his disappearing steps down the staircase. Gilbert saw Ludwig still frozen on his seat on the couch…with a smile…taken and lost and he rolled his eyes.

“Yeah, I know, it's easy to get a massive crush on him, but I'm already warning you, it's not a good idea right now. Come on, let's go have some Greek for lunch!”

Chapter Text

The short visit to the restaurant had actually been a joy, both discussing new portraits to add to the apartment and…Antarctic seals. Ludwig laughed thinking about it as he returned to his room. Gilbert had gone to check some things with the motorcycle and so he had the apartment for himself. He wondered how he should spend the time. He looked down to his desk, his notebook from earlier, picking it up to go through what he had written. He had a large intro done that he was pretty confident to show Francis on the first rehearsal and he already had the lyrics to the ending song. ‘Komet’ he had called it…he wrote it in German. He sighed wondering if it would be enough…and that he still had other songs and parts to write on. But now…Feliciano's face and figure were all that took over his mind, a reddened smile on him as he settled down to sit with a pen, a new page, writing on the words he had inspired after these first meetings he still had a hard time believing had happened.

“Your voice alone is the most beautiful song I've heard,
Happiness is your name,
You have made my world in yours,
Felicità è il tuo nome,
No more will I ever be the same,
Glück ist dein Name.”

First rehearsal meant that it was the first time they were all getting together to actually work on this thing. The theater was in Mitte, in an area he admitted he quite liked. Clean, orderly and the people moving in business. He wasn't scared, he wasn't nervous, he showed up between the masses as if another scheduled job on his farm.

It was 9:00 and already the seats were piled with people, some already bringing in heavy machinery, costumes or displays to the stage that was darkened yet large, the space available to fulfill big ideas. Francis of course crowned himself center, dealing with all kinds coming to him with questions, ideas and concerns. Ludwig settled with a back corner hopefully no one would find him in, shadowed, alone, he thought he was safe.

The array and noises continued until Francis called out, “enough! Before anything else, take a seat! Please! Pour l'amour de Dieu! We have to make a proper introduction.”

Everyone obeyed and made their place and Ludwig smiled to know he was still singular in his area.

Silence came, everyone was patient for the words of the director. Francis was proud that he could already call for attention to himself like this. “Bonjour et bienvenue! This is the very first rehearsal for the show, Komet!” Applauses and shouts reigned all across the theater, Francis nodding with a delighted grin. “As you know-” and he went on with technicalities that Ludwig didn't care about, perhaps a little too much on his upbringing in Lyon and what he considered a biopic of sorts that led him to directing this show in Berlin. He began introducing all the groups that worked, the actors, dancers, orchestra, producers, choreographers, lighting, makeup, sound.

“-our writer! Ludwig Beilschmidt!” He called out. He blushed slightly at the whistles and shouts, answering with a raise of his hands letting him know to continue quickly. He didn't like getting any attention.

“Our lead stage designer! Feliciano Valenti!”

Ludwig looked for him along with the others…but no…he was nowhere to be found, a disappointment clear.

“I thought you said he would be here!” Francis angered at Liên, who checked her tablet for his information surely.

“I have an e-mail where he replied he would.”

Francis scoffed,”I should have known! Agh! If he doesn't come today, we'll have to find somebody else.” Liên went ahead to write that down while others came to discuss.

Francis continued mentioning many, then going on about how this play was his golden baby he intended to raise to be a splendorous adult. All the while…Ludwig wondered about Feliciano…he continued to look about for him as Francis went on, trying to think about what could have happened to have caused him to come late, as well as dreading the idea of Feliciano not having his job here anymore if he didnt show up. Sure…he said he would continue to take flute lessons with Gilbert, but he really…wanted to see him more often and already he felt emptiness to know if he wouldn't be in these rehearsals. He sighed…never mind…he shouldn't keep any hope concerning him. Dreams, fantasies, nothing else. He should keep him apart as he intended.

“Ciao, Ludwig!”

Ludwig startled at the sudden grip and force on his shoulder, Feliciano clearly using it as help to hoist him down to the seat next to him. He dropped and made himself comfortable, only a portfolio on his lap, all smiles and friendliness and Ludwig didn't mind at all not being lonely anymore.

“How late am I?” He looked about as if figuring out the puzzle of what had happened.

Ludwig checked his watch, “you're an hour late.”

He breathed with great relief, “oh god, that's better than I thought!”

“Francis threatened to replace you if you didn't show up.”

Feliciano scoffed, “he won't.”

“Why did you even come so late?”

Feliciano for a moment was saddened, before he picked himself up to answer, “I couldn't find my portfolio. I thought it was gone…but I have it again!” He raised it up to prove.

With the dark and back corner they were in, Ludwig doubted anyone had noticed Feliciano arrive, and so Francis continued his presentation as intended, Feliciano doing well to stay attentive and listen. Ludwig on the other hand…couldn't help how the corner of his eyes continued to him, trying hard to hide the smile that wanted to erupt at the mere giddiness of sitting next to him…that he even chose to sit next to him with all these people and space available. He did make obvious his strong gazes at the portfolio, curious as to what was being held.

“Ludwig, is it okay if you can tell me what I missed from the beginning?”

“He's just been introducing everyone and going on about how he is the rightful heir to the throne of France.”

“Not much then.”

Ludwig laughed, “yeah.”

Feliciano smiled, “I was worried we had already begun working on things.”

“No, not really. I haven't been able to show him what I've written.”

“I need to show him what I drew!” He held the portfolio tighter to his chest, almost as if he was tempting Ludwig with it.

He always knew Feliciano as a singer…he never thought of him as someone who drew as well…he never posted any kind of art in any of the pages he at least knew from him. “Um…may I?” He dared to ask.

“Oh…” Feliciano looked to the aqua blue covers in contemplation, but easily he smiled and decided to offer, Ludwig careful, bringing it to his own lap safely.

If his art was not something he posted online, with already a talent in music, gardening and…eroticism…he really wasn't expecting much, perhaps more sketchy doodles than…Ach du Scheiße. These were…gorgeous. Intricacy, detail, splendorous colors, practically alive and wanting to dance out of the page.

Watercolors, along with pencil traces of forests, as green as the very hills of his own farm back at Bavaria, a bounty of colorful flowers, gorgeous blue skies with the perfect sparsity of clouds, and figures of children playing and enjoying a morning of dreams.

“This is incredible,” he complimented, still breath taken, careful, fighting hard the need to trace his hands and dive himself into their world.

“You really think so?”

“Without a doubt! I didn’t think you’d-” no…he had to be careful, he had to hold back. “Um…uh…I don’t think Francis will deny whatever idea you have.”

It was the only drawings Feliciano currently held, going through all of them before he shut the portfolio and handed it just as carefully back.

“Thanks! I'm glad you like them! I really hope Francis likes the idea I have.”

“I mean, the drawings look amazing.”

“It's not just the painting, it's also the stage formatting and well…perhaps changing how Francis intended the play to begin.”

“How so?”

“I think Francis wants to begin the play instantly with a song, the one that's supposed to introduce Lorenz and what's going on in Berlin at the time. I wouldn't mind, but I really think we should start with a dance from the children who believe that the comet is good.”

And instantly the gears of Ludwig's head turned, imagining and constructing.

“There's a lot of dark numbers, so I think even more with good could make it flow and work better.”

“Feliciano…you're onto something here.” Ludwig instantly opened his notebook and began writing.

“Wow…really?”

“Remember, I'm the writer. Francis specifically hired me to order and make everything concrete. I was having issues with how it should start. Instantly going to the city and the perspective of the adults already starts a dark tone that I don't think matches well with the rest of the show. Starting with a forest and children is just the right atmosphere that can keep everyone hopeful.”

“Yes! That's amazing! Oh, I hope Francis does it!”

“I'm with you.”

“I like how we're already working together!”

That smile, that gaze, Ludwig was close to boiling over in red and burning the page he wrote upon.

“Feliciano! I caught you! You tardy cretin!” Francis shouted, startling Feliciano, somehow his first impulse being shrinking down and hiding behind the opposite chair. “Come this instant! You too, Ludwig! The whole order of this show depends on it.”

Everyone had long dispersed to their specific group to work. Through these movements of discussions and activities, Ludwig and Feliciano made their way through until they were on center stage, where Francis shooed away some people from the lighting department before he could focus on Ludwig and Feliciano, already looking like a headache was taking action.

“Show and tell me what you have!”

Feliciano bumped Ludwig with his hips as a way to tell him to go first. Ludwig was startled trying to understand how he felt about it… but he realized and was quick to get his notebook, starting with a timeline he had detailed to better explain his writings.

“I have some scenes written, I just need your approval before I make an official script. I have much of the ending, some of the descriptions for the bad omen dances, as well as the lyrics for the final song.”

“You already have the last song?” Francis was impressed.

“Yes, but I come to you concerning how the play should start.”

“With a musical dance number of the city inhabitants.”

“Yeah, no.”

Of course Francis was at first insulted.

“Please look at what Feliciano has.”

And here he presented his portfolio, Francis taking to gaze at the creations with awe.

“These are incredible, Feli! But how do you intend it to be presented on the stage?”

“I'll set it up with boards, foams, I'll try to see if I can get actual flowers and greens. Some will be on floating stages and I have to talk to the projections for a digital drawing as well as I know that the rest of the stage department can help with finishing and later moving for the performance.”

“That's daring and complicated.”

Ludwig had to agree with Francis, although he was impressed at how he had already organized everything and was confident to make it through.

“But it will be beautiful and a perfect beginning!”

“Beginning?”

“Francis, I think we should start with the children and what they believe the comet is.” And here Ludwig showed what he had written concerning it. It had some scratches and surely some errors, but it was enough to give Francis the idea and at least from this Ludwig could work on the first official script.

Francis sighed after he finished reading it. “You both offer something great and…although hard, it could be possible and even genius…just that I don't have the children actors. I was thinking of getting puppets for the children's scenes.”

Ludwig and Feliciano couldn't believe they had forgotten that detail…and they both hated the idea of using puppets.

“It can't be that hard!” Feliciano had simply assumed.

“Do you have any idea about the paperwork and the protection laws we have to get through and just how I'll have the parents up my ass!”

“But, I'm sure-”

“No! Unless you manage to-”

“If I do the paperwork, get the kids and talk to the parents, would it be possible?” Ludwig suddenly interrupted, leaving Francis and Feliciano shocked.

Francis stuttered for a moment, not expecting that sudden offering. “Ludwig, that is massively complicated and will be a bigger workload for you.”

“It's fine. If it gets us the perfect introduction, I'll be willing to do it.”

As Francis wondered, Feliciano smiled with such a dreamlike gaze that it only made Ludwig more determined, energizing on that impulse to get what Feliciano wanted.

Francis sighed, “I'll give you a month to find these child actors. If it all works well, then yes, this will be an ideal way to start the show…if not, we go with what I had originally thought out.”

They both nodded, understanding well, for now finding ease and calm.

Some costume designers came at that moment with other concerns and Francis gave them his focus, leaving Ludwig and Feliciano alone once again to smile at this victory.

“Wait…do you know where you're going to find the child actors?” Feliciano wondered and Ludwig's eyes widened at the realization that…he had no idea where in the hell he was going to look for these children.

“Being completely honest…no, no…I don't know.” And a slight panic began to pile, the uncertainty and doubt clear.

“Then how come you decided to do it?” Feliciano concerned.

“Because….” I wanted to impress you, I wanted you to believe I'm cool, you also had a great idea and I wanted to make it possible for you. “...I just really think this idea will be best for the show.”

Feliciano smiled, “well, I won't let you do this alone. Can you give me your phone?”

“What for?” Ludwig still took it out and offered it easily for Feliciano to take.

“I'm giving you my number so you can contact me for absolutely anything you might need for it. I'll help you as best as I can!” He wrote the contact information and just like that…Ludwig actually had Feliciano's number. He almost fainted when he gave it back.

“Feli! Come on! We already have to get started on that stage suggestion you gave Francis,” a crew member came forward.

“Sure, just give me a second, Rayyan.” The other nodded and decided to wait for him with the rest of the crew. “Seriously, if you need absolutely anything, let me know!”

“I'll…be sure to do that.” Although it is likely he'll be too nervous to even begin writing him a message.

He could do this, turning to begin a mission to make absolutely everything work.

“Ludwig…before you leave, can I ask you a German question?”

“Hm? You speak it don't you?”

“Very little, there's still a lot I don't understand.”

“What do you need to know then?”

“What does Glück ist dein Name mean?”

Ludwig almost choked that instant. “Wh-wha-why do you ask?” He had to keep his composure for this, he had to continue to keep it hidden, make no suspicions, hide the sweat, the red…even the joy.

Feliciano shrugged, “it was from a message I got. It was really pretty but I didn't understand that phrase. The person always writes to me in English and I was a little surprised they wrote in German.”

Ludwig realized a mistake he made, accidentally giving him a hint of who he was. He wanted to slap himself.

“It means happiness is your name,” he said simply.

“Thank you!” Feliciano smiled grandly before he turned and went off, leaving Ludwig with the residual sparks of that exchange.

Okay, where in the hell was he going to find child actors? The more he tapped his notebook to try and brainstorm some sort of plan, the more he realized that this was indeed much more difficult than he had thought. It just wasn't the search…it was also just any spark of ideas for the entirety of the show. There were still so many scenes unfinished, songs and descriptions missing and his mind couldn't conjure absolutely anything to fill those spaces.

Writer's block.

He groaned as he slammed the notebook shut and decided with standing and making himself some tea as a break. As he took his first warm sips, he hoped for some kind of inspiration to hit him, and quick since Gilbert could arrive anytime now to ruin this perfected silence. And then- his laughter, already booming up the staircase. Great…he should say goodbye to whatever chance to write for the rest of the day. He sighed, emptying his cup and turning ready for his welcome.

“Brüder! I've brought döner!” He shouted as he made his way in with bags of the food. Why so many for just-

“Ludwig! Hi!” Feliciano came in with his own equal share of bags.

All of a sudden Ludwig was not annoyed at all.

“Any sparks of pure genius?” Gilbert wondered as he and Feliciano put the bags on the table.

“I'm still on the same blank.”

“You haven't found the child actors either?” Feliciano concerned.

Ludwig was disappointed to admit, “no…I don't have any idea.”

“Don't worry! Gilbert and I will practice now and surely a bunch of ideas will come to you like last time!” Feliciano was beautifully excited.

“I assume you'll be staying for our practice then.”

“I have nothing better to do.”

Feliciano clapped and jumped. “You're going to see me become a master at Bohemian Rhapsody!”

“Then come on, let's get ready and start before Keron is an ass and annoys you about heading back.”

Feliciano only pouted, nothing else as they made their way to the living room, plates and their döners on them, taking bites between practicing melodies. With no other choice for a lunch, Ludwig took his own and settled along with them, enjoying the taste, the songs and…it was quite impressive how their combined effort sparked ideas…like certain words for the lyrics of that first song and descriptions leading to the event of Lorenz's freedom.

“Where did you get this döner?” Ludwig suddenly wondered.

“Lud, the only döner I buy is Sadiq's.”

Sadiq…Sadiq…

"My wife is a kindergarten teacher at a forest kindergarten, she mentions that they often need hands. If you're looking for something to do, you can always inter with her."

Ludwig suddenly stood. “Gilbert, I need Sadiq's number.”

“What for?”

“I need to contact him about his wife's kindergarten.”

“Are you really…taking an internship there?” Gilbert didn't know if to be terrified for the children…or Ludwig.

“I don't know…maybe…perhaps…I have to talk to her first!”

“You want to ask them about the show?” Feliciano guessed.

“What? No! These are not actually child actors, Lud!”

“But they are kids in a forest kindergarten, which means-”

“They know how to be in the woods, and it would be perfect for the introduction number,” Feliciano realized with a sparkling smile.

“They would still have to dance and act,” Gilbert reminded.

“The act doesn't call for anything too difficult,” Feliciano was sure.

“Still, these are children that don't know or understand this kind of world. It will be really difficult convincing them and the parents to let them join.”

“The act is supposed to be about 3 minutes long and the show will only play four times.”

“You're not including rehearsal times with that, Lud!” Gilbert was still unconvinced.

“Look, just let me contact them and see what we can arrange.” Ludwig was determined and Gilbert was finding it harder to fight this sudden iron will. He sighed and went through his contact until Sadiq's showed up and Ludwig could copy it to his own. He didn't waste a moment to send him a message and just as instantly he had Yekaterina Braginskaya's contact.

They had agreed on a visit the very Thursday of that week on the pretense that Ludwig would take a part time job there. They would test a day with him and right before leaving he would make the suggestion to Yekaterina. Yes, they were heading somewhere here. He felt somewhat accomplished as he prepared his clothing for the next day, cleaned and well pressed. He got into bed, covered and ready for sleep…when suddenly he felt…cravings…for moans, shining brown eyes and curls. He was already heaving for him, but first…his usual socials, nothing new to venture into and thus he could go to his onlyfans where there were indeed new images…with lingerie…hell yes. It was a breathtaking display, loving how with each picture he took one piece away. He had risen, he was going to the last image, ready to rub himself for that finalization that he knew would keep him asleep, when his phone rang. He groaned, knowing he couldn't hold from checking just in case it was his brother arriving drunk and confused again. But when he alighted his phone, the name that appeared was Feliciano. He almost shot off the bed, going to hide the laptop as if he had never been on the brink of pleasuring himself to the very person who wrote him that message.

He clicked and read: ‘Hey, Ludwig! It’s about going to Yekaterina’s kindergarten. Can I go with you? I find it only fair I help you out since we came up with the idea together. Let me know where we can meet up if we do!’

His heart fluttered and he almost just replied: ‘YEESS!!’ like a madman.

He told himself to breathe, keep it together and reply civilly, waiting a bit before sending his reply. ‘Sure. Let’s just try to meet up at Adenauerplatz so we can take the bus together.’

Quickly after he received: ‘Perfect! See you then’

He smiled at this simplicity for the longest time…laying in that bliss until he remembered…he had naked pictures of the very man to look at.

Chapter Text

It was one of those rare cold, yet shining blue days. Ludwig dressed in his usual, no matter if it didn’t ‘pass the vibe check’ as Gilbert tended to say. It was still his nicest gray coat, his grandfather's favorite scarf and fitting and warm jeans. The trees were still gray, but if you stare long enough as he did, you could catch some glimpses of green as a reminder of the coming spring.

“Ludwig! Ludwig! Ludwig!” He heard his shout, coming from the ubahn and there was Feliciano's excited wave of welcome. Ludwig smiled and then…did not expect at all the sudden hug that he crushed into him with. It was quick though, too quick to admire the glorious feel.

“I'm not too late aren't I?” He worried.

“I figured as much…which is why we still have two buses we can take.”

Feliciano clapped and Ludwig turned and led them to the bus stop. The next one came right the next minute, practically vacant and yet they took their seats next to one another. They relaxed, watching the city go by, the buildings becoming houses and the dry trees and promised greenery taking over more often.

“I uh…hope it wasn't that hard to get to our meeting place.” Ludwig had simply placed it because it was convenient for him.

“I had to take two ubahn lines.”

“I'm so sorry!” Ludwig looked blamed and distressed while Feliciano just began to laugh.

“It's fine, Ludwig! I really don't mind. I pretty much live far from all my friends here so I'm used to traveling around the city in a bunch of crazy ways.”

“Where exactly are you living right now?”

“Moabit, by Tiergarten…it's nice…although sometimes I wished I lived with everybody else in Kreuzberg or Neuköln.”

“Really?” Ludwig grimaced, not knowing how someone could like those disgusting places.

“They have a lot of interesting galleries and people and food and your brother lives there, and Antonio, and Francis, Sadiq, Yekaterina.”

“I wish I could look at it the way you do then…to me it's too dirty, people are too rude and weird, and to be honest, I'm kind of scared.”

Feliciano chuckled, “I thought the same when I first came here.”

“Especially for you…uh…Gilbert told me you came from this really….pretty village in Tuscany.”

“Yeah, it's kind of funny to see people here with calendars and posters of the places I grew up in. And yes, it was beautiful and nice and my mother could make me all the pasta I wanted…but I still felt so lonely sometimes.”

“But you're so…bright and friendly.”

Feliciano smiled and Ludwig blushed heavily, having to turn away afraid Feliciano could see more of it than just redness.

“I guess, but I was still kind of secluded…I remember being so excited when Rodrich first came. It was so nice, so different. He traveled and saw so much, and when I met Gilbert it was the same. I wanted to follow what they did and, well, Berlin is kind of my first shot at it. I'm so glad they've made me feel at home here…it's amazing how people can change whole cities for you.” And with the way the sun shone behind him, that grin, somehow all the dryness of the trees, of the dirtiest buildings and corners, looked like meadows with jewels…he very clearly understood his words.

“I…didn't think of it that way. I never headed out of my farm because everything was so beautiful, calm and it provided everything I needed. To me Berlin has a lot to compete with.”

“Gilbert and Rodrich showed me some pictures. It looks really nice. They told me your grandfather had been really sick and that you took care of most of it the last few years.”

“I had to take care of everything including him and every single animal.”

The rest of the ride was spent on Ludwig describing and talking about each one, Feliciano more wondered about it than he had thought. They arrived at their stop and Ludwig led the way down housed roads, the wall of the forest coming ever nearer.

“I thought you had animals in your farm too.”

“Not as much as you did. We had one horse, a couple of goats and our four cats. Sometimes we had wolves coming in…that was actually really cool.” It got eerily silent as Feliciano thought on, Ludwig for a second wondering if he had said something wrong. “If…I go back to my farm…I would want it to have a lot of animals like yours. I used to have a lot of fun taking care of the ones I had with nonno.” And that silence was just him in a memory.

“You like animals then?” Ludwig smiled and found it endearing.

They were coming to a dirt road, where he knew at the end would be the building.

Feliciano chuckled, “yes, I do. I'm still sad I couldn't bring my cat here.”

“Then you're going to love Yakiv and Polina.”

“Who are they?”

Ludwig just noticed the entry arch way. “The two horses of the kindergarten…two highland Ponies from Scotland.”

Feliciano gave an enamored shout, stars practically shooting from his eyes. It was adorable.

“Feli!” Came the shout from the large woman coming through the archway.

“Yekaterina!” Feliciano shouted in turn, arms wide open as he rushed forward and both of them twirled and hugged and shouted in a mix of unintelligible words.

“It's been so long, it's nice to see you!”

“Thank you for letting me come!”

She sighed, “we need all the help we can get.”

She turned to Ludwig, a warm smile, motherly, kind and precisely fitted for a kindergarten teacher. “You must be Ludwig! An honor to meet you. Come this way and we can immediately start!” She led them through the archway, down what was supposed to be a garden road, now empty and gardening supplies spread about, surely to make the preparations for when summer came. Ludwig was surprised he didn’t really hear the scream and shouts of children until he made it to the meeting center. It was a plain gazebo, woodend, open, but spacious enough for all the kids that ran about in what apparently was their usual morning. Too many, Ludwig was already getting dizzy from it.

“We’re still waiting for some of the other children to arrive and for others to finish their breakfast.”

Wait…there were still kids missing?

“In the meantime.” She then whistled, grabbing the attention of two other men. One was helping some children with preparing wood for a fire, the other was just heading out from a wagon at the side, throwing boots to some kids that asked for some. They came at their boss’s calling, practically identical serious expressions…for kindergarten teachers.

“This is Luis Martinez.”

He only raised two fingers.

“And Talim Susanto.”

He had a grin as he waved.

“They're my assistants and will be with us for most of the day. Now if we can-”

“Sir, you're really tall,” one of the children suddenly popped behind Ludwig, pulling at his coat and putting too much strength on how he looked up.

“Uh…yes…I am.” Ludwig didn't know how else to answer.

“Are you in the army?” One girl suddenly popped.

“Uh…”

“No, no, no, he's a spy!” Another boy shouted and suddenly that was the decision they thought true, loud whispers spreading that decreed it. Ludwig would have continued glaring if it wasn't for the grin Feliciano tried to hide in the palm of his hands.

“He looks like he could kill a man with his own mustache…and a grape!” One boy declared…and Ludwig was trying way too hard to understand how that worked.

“I'm…actually a farmer,” he told them.

They all awed and came ever closer.

“Do you have an elephant in your farm?” One boy frantically asked.

“Or a skunk?!” A girl wondered in the same demand.

“I have very normal animals.”

“So, like, a hamster!” One boy said.

“All right, that's enough! Everyone, go line up and wait by the gate!” Yekaterina called. And surely by some…magical powers Yekaterina held, all the children ran and made their place, talking and jumping on between themselves but still patiently waiting.

“How many kids are in this group?” Feliciano asked.

Yekaterina sighed, “twenty-one.”

“Twenty-one!” Ludwig exclaimed.

“That's a lot,” Feliciano commented like nothing.

“Yeah, it's why we're in constant need of extra hands…but come! We'll go through what we normally do during the day. Just follow along. If we ask you for help, just help, otherwise, enjoy the day!” She smiled at them one last time before she took the front. She picked a walking stick tied with blue and yellow ribbons, raised it in the air and all the children fell incredibly silent. “So, which will it be today? The route of the spy, the route of the evil king, the route of the scientist or the route of the zombies.”

“The evil king!” One boy shouted loudest and the rest of the kids just followed along.

“The evil king route it is!” And they celebrated as Yekaterina turned and made her way to the north.

Ludwig was expecting them to make their hike orderly and silent…but…nope, they went into disarray the moment the gates opened.

“Just make sure that you can at least spot them,” Luis told them, noticing their worried expressions.

“They know to stay close, but sometimes they get a little too daring, so just keep an eye if you can,” Talim gave as last warning before he went along with Luis and some other children that hanged on their steps.

Ludwig and Feliciano thought they would go on their own, until a little girl just came between them, taking both their hands, smiling, swaying and like she belonged right between them. “I’m going to stay with you guys, you look like you’ll need some help…and you both kind of remind me of my mamma and papa,” she said like nothing, hanging on their hold indeed as if they were her parents.

Ludwig blushed deeply and looked to Feliciano wondering if he found this insulting, but all he did was smile, finding it quite endearing instead.

They settled into the woods, children always screaming, playing, uncovering or making needy demands to their teachers. And yet, they did well to always be in Yekaterina's area, no matter how she continued, whether slow, quick or keeping an even space.

Suddenly she found a good tree, one that they thought was indeed perfect for her to take her sitting, leaning against it in comfort. It was incredible how all the children knew instantly that it was time to sit down, all circling around her giddy and bright.

“Okay kids, time for our morning circle. Now, what is different today?”

A boy raised his hand and instantly pointed to Ludwig and Feliciano, “we have impostors!”

They all began to hysterically laugh.

“I wouldn't say impostors, but yes, we have guests. Would our guests like to say some words about themselves?”

“Oh, I can say some things!” Feliciano eagerly raised his hand and waved it about.

“Come on then!” Yekaterina moved aside so Feliciano could take a jumping seat next to her.

“Hi! My name is Feliciano Valenti. I'm twenty-five years old, I like to paint and sing and cook and garden and I'm from Italy!” That already greatly impressed the kids, who awed and chuckled.

“My mamma is from Italy!” The girl who was still holding Ludwig's hand said.

“My papa too!” Two others shouted.

“Are you gonna make us pizza now?” There was a boy who asked, drooling at the prospect.

“Ah, sadly I don't have the ingredients with me, but maybe another time. Do you have a brick oven here?”

“Noo…” They all saddened and even Feliciano joined them with how miserable they looked.

“Ah, don't worry, we can build one,” Talim suggested.

That was just enough to get them to holler in celebration.

“Well, Feliciano, I hope you don't mind coming back to host a pizza party then. We'll have an oven ready for you,” Yekaterina welcomed.

“Sounds like fun! I'd love to!”

They shouted more, one child going as far as to hug Feliciano and shout, “I love you!” Feliciano grinned and petted the boy's brown hair.

“What about the other guy?” One girl reminded angrily, with a severe point to Ludwig. He flushed and stuttered, hoping for some escape.

“Why are you so scared?” The girl who still held his hand wondered unperturbed.

“I…don't know what to say.”

“Oh, don't worry Ludwig, nothing to worry about,” Yekaterina said.

“I can sit by you and help you out,” Feliciano smiled.

The rest of the kids just started insisting, some standing and beginning to tap on his back to hurry. He groaned and accepted, all starting a celebration before they took their seats again. He sat right between Yekaterina and Feliciano…then the girl followed and just decided to lay next to him as well, practically laying to sleep on his lap, he was frigid, not really knowing what to do with her.

“Isabella, can we let Ludwig talk now?” Yekaterina concerned.

“He's so scared, I want to help him.”

“Do you mind, Ludwig?”

She looked up to him with such big bright blue eyes, an innocent smile, and he groaned not wanting to break it. “It's fine, she can stay.”

She clapped her hands and then cemented herself more in her place. Ludwig sighed having to get used to her there.

“Uh…hi, I'm Ludwig Beilschmidt.”

“Hi, Ludwig!” They all waved and shouted, with snickers and excitement and Ludwig couldn't help his own laugh.

“I'm from Germany, a little village in Bayern. I like to read and I also like to write. I have a farm that I like to take care of. We have a lot of animals like dogs, geese and cows-”

The children awed and seemed to lean much closer as a circle. He was reminded of the times his grandfather would sit just like this, with a group of children around him, telling stories and tales that enchanted all. Many times he himself was the child laying on his lap as this girl was. He sighed…he kind of missed those times. He took a deep breath and couldn't believe he was doing this.

“Once there was a goose named Rosalin…who wanted to be a dog.”

Of course they had all been enchanted, listening to the sudden tale he made up, an adventure, silly and whimsical, that had the children hanging to the very end. When he turned to Feliciano…he was just as taken as the rest and he felt prideful for it.

The rest of their hike consisted of the same. Children wandering, playing, using the leaves, the sticks, the trees, building, shouting, acting their stories and telling their stories. They decided to make their way back to base camp for lunch in the same routine. The kids sat down and had their packed things, while the teachers and Ludwig and Feliciano had some take out from a nearby grill place. Once done, Feliciano decided on joining the kids in a round of tag. He was a highlight, a clear target, but their utter shouts of happiness and laughter made them all sure they were having fun.

Feliciano looked so cute…running around with them, in their same shrill and joy…a wonderful picture that Ludwig couldn't keep his eyes off from, nor the smile.

“My husband told me you were really serious, but I failed to see that side of you today.”

Ludwig was startled by Yekaterina suddenly joining his side. “Oh, um, uh…I guess the kids brought a…sweeter side of me.”

She smiled, “I'm glad. I'm going to assume you enjoyed your day then.”

“Yes, it was much more enjoyable than I thought it would be.”

“That's great! Then…would you be interested in the internship position? It would only be once a week for just four hours. You'll get properly paid and the kids will just love having you around.”

Ludwig sighed, “I'll be honest with you, Yekaterina, my reasons for coming here are others.”

Yekaterina perked with concern but was willing to hear what he had to say.

“Ah, they are so nice!” Feliciano was close to shrilling, but knew he had to be calm enough for the two ponies. They had welcomed him enough to pet…but it also probably had to do with the gratuitous amount of hay and apple slices they had just received from the very children as they came to their pen. “I see you take really good care of both of them,” Feliciano told them, cooing to Yakiv before leaving a kiss on its head.

“Of course we do! We can even take care of the chickens too!” One of the girls that stood next to Feliciano made sure, jumping as she told.

“You have chickens?” He sounded too excited for a twenty-five year old adult.

“Yep! Do you want to see them?” One boy was ready to lead.

“Oh, please, please!”

“Then come on!”

Ludwig saw them go to another pen at the side of the building, a distraction from looking at Yekaterina's face as she wondered after the proposition. “I don't know Ludwig…Francis is right, the paperwork and telling the parents can be very complicated.”

“But if we had their permission, would it be possible?” He had to pull himself away from just staring at Feliciano trying to catch some chickens.

“Yes…if the parents agree and the paperwork is done, it can be arranged”

Ludwig sighed in relief. “Can you tell them?”

“I can make an announcement, yes, but I think you'll have to talk to them yourself. I could help you set up a meeting if you like.”

“That'll be-” A sudden shout interrupted, terror and an Italian running for his life across the field, a gray, fiery and big rooster ran off right behind him, cuckling menace. Some of the kids tried to run and catch the creature.

“Ah…he tried to pet Adam…”

“Should I be concerned?”

“No, no, I can help him.” She then whistled, the rooster instantly stopping, gazing over to Yekaterina. “Adam! Back! Now! Leave our guest alone!” She demanded in a roughness Ludwig was not expecting from her. Adam gave one last menacing cackle at Feliciano, who trembled and cowered and looked like he would disappear into the woods, before he made his march back to its pen. Yekaterina sighed, “I'm really sorry about that Feli, we should have given you a better warning.”

“It looked so fluffy…” he still felt so betrayed.

“Yeah…that's how Adam fools everyone.”

The kids went to deal with…Adam and Feliciano decided to just stay by Ludwig's side from now on. “So we are taking the internship right?”

“Well, if Ludwig wants what he says, it would be best.”

“Come on, Ludwig! We can do it together! Sure, Adam was really scary and I know never to go near him again, but Yakiv and Polina were absolute sweethearts. The kids are amazing and I want to keep coming here…even if it's so damn cold right now.” He hung to Ludwig's arm, shook and looked up to him with such sway that Ludwig was weak to. He could ask to murder with those eyes and Ludwig would gladly join him on the kill.

“Fine…we’ll come at least once a week.”

Feliciano jumped and celebrated, an elation the kids shared once they were informed.

“Is Isabella German-Italian?” Ludwig wondered aloud as they made their way back to the bus stop.

“Yep. Mama is from Milano and Papa from Frankfurt. I asked her…she was very proud about it.”

“Huh…interesting.”

Feliciano chuckled, “I think that’s why she said we were like her parents.”

Ludwig reddened and knew he had to diverge the topic before he couldn't say a thing. “Is it really okay for you to do this internship?”

“Of course! It looks like a lot of fun!”

“It’s just…you have the show and you have a very present part in the production…you’ll go way more times to the theater than I do.”

“Yeah, I do, but it’s not everyday and my crew is a big one and they’re all amazing and we work really well together. A couple of hours in the morning in the kindergarten is nothing.”

Ludwig sighed, “if you say so…just…don’t feel pressured just because you want to keep helping me.”

“Na’ I actually really want to…I like…being out a lot right now.”

It was silent between them as they reached the more populous spot where their bus stop was. It was much more hectic now inside the vehicle, a sport to try and maintain their spots as they worked about with everyone's exits and comings. They couldn't really chat and enjoyed whatever peace they managed. Sadly, Feliciano had to take another stop to make his way home…and so Ludwig waved goodbye, eager already for their next meeting.

Chapter Text

Yekaterina had already talked to the parents and they were willing to listen to what Ludwig had to say concerning their kids being in the show. He had busied himself preparing how exactly that meeting would go, going over some laws and accommodations with Francis, Erszèbet and Liên. Other than that, Ludwig had handed the lyrics to the last song, as well as the first sung one which he named ‘Rumors in Berlin’. Rodrich, who was currently in Amsterdam on one of his latest shows, would compose the music and send a result to Francis later and then they could actually rehearse to the music. For now they just dealt how they could with the words and whatever the costume and stage department had.

Ludwig was currently trying to get the words for one of the demonic songs, Gilbert and Feliciano's flute playing, discussions and jokes actually doing well to keep him jotting.

“Feli…I think I draw the line at trying to play Pitbull.”

Feliciano hummed…before he stood, a smirk, a moment of thought before he blew his flute in a perfection of ‘Oh, baby, baby, la la la la la la la.’

“You little shit,” Gilbert still smirked in impression despite. And Feliciano still made it worse by now trying…specifically Pitbull's raps from International Love. “Stop, stop, please, don't keep doing this to me.”

“Well, you don't let me rap. I have to find other ways to do it,” Feliciano pouted.

“Feliciano, you actually have a really nice voice…that's not meant for rapping.”

It did not fix his pout at all.

“You can sing?” Ludwig asked…only for the impression, pretending he knew nothing and to keep as much suspicion away as he could.

Feliciano glowed and had a song ready to burst.

“E poi diventano schiuma!”

And how loudly he rang and brought colors galore.

“Per tutte le volte che, ti vorrei raggiungere,
Da un battito d'ali tsunami,”

The vibration this time…could tickle well across his body, could alight him with a smile. Gorgeous, beautiful and even majestic. An honor to have finally heard him sing in person.

“Strappo un'altra pagina,
Cerco la mia Africa,
Tanto ci vediamo domani,
Tsunami
Tu mi ami!”

Gilbert hollered and clapped, Ludwig joining him with his own chuckle and Feliciano saluted and bowed.

“Schön, sehr schön…now get out.” They laughed but Feliciano actually started getting his things together while Gilbert put his own things away. Ludwig was deciding that perhaps that was enough for today and was wondering about what to do for lunch.

“Hey, Ludwig, are you doing anything tomorrow?” Feliciano suddenly was beside him, big eyes and eager.

“No, I don't have anything planned. Why are you asking?”

He smiled, “great! Then, maybe you can come to one of my exhibitions! There's a gallery in Kreuzburg that's going to show a series I worked on and I really want you to see it!”

“Is it the one with the continents?” Gilbert wondered.

“Yes!” Feliciano was incredibly excited.

“Ah, that shit is amazing! You should definitely go, Ludwig!”

It was for Feliciano…of course he would. Enough acceptance was in his smile. “Sure, I'd love to.”

Feliciano jumped and laughed. “It's at 12:00 until the gallery closes. It's called König Gallerie! I's pretty big but just tell the receptionist you're looking for Valenti's series and they should be able to tell you where the exhibition hall is. I have to be there for most of its opening, but I can make some time to spend with you.”

“Don't worry too much. I'll be there.”

And Feliciano hugged and then laid a kiss on his cheek and Ludwig had to stiffen so he wouldn't lean to the ground in the euphoria.

“Oh that’s so great! I can’t wait! Please try to find me when you’re there, okay?”

“Ye-yeah-yes!”

Feliciano shrilled and clapped again before he made his way to the hall to get ready. He waved and gave his usual Italian farewell before he was gone. Gilbert smirked and was liking how this was coming along…even if it meant disaster later on.

It was now April. Spring was here and the cold outside wasn't as chilling. Ludwig could settle on one of his lighter coats, shirts and scarfs.

“Why aren't you coming?” He asked Gilbert as he was getting his shoes ready.

“I've already seen this exhibition, Lud. Also, I really gotta keep working on the motorcycle, I'm actually getting a motor running.”

“That's nice. So, we will see each other later tonight for dinner?”

Gilbert shrugged, “maybe. I wouldn't count on it. Have some abendbröt if anything…unless Feliciano invites you somewhere.” Gilbert smirked and winked.

Ludwig reddened and decided that moment to head out and make his way.

It was a bus and a walk later, Ludwig readily making his way inside, trying hard not to imagine how he would head out of here with Feliciano on his arm, a romantic evening awaiting them. No, no, exhibition and then…bread…at his brother’s apartment…-of course he would prefer some fancy dinner with dim lighting in the city.

He left behind his coat at a wardrobe and then asked for Feliciano Valenti’s exhibition. It was on one of the top floors and he made his way up, uncaring to everything else…he just wanted his.

There were…a lot of people at what was supposed to be his hall. He made sure he read his name on the entrance card and there it was. He made his entrance hesitant, feeling so small in this multitude, some of these people wearing suits. He just came in jeans and a sweater.

The first of the paintings welcomed him, a large canvas. There were many bright and vibrant colors, although red stood out well here, silks and items, dragons and flowers, fruits and swords, all surrounding a figure in an original dress that was splendorous in a combine of different Asian garments. He swore some parts shone in real gold. It was marvelous, the figure in its center towering and crowning. He almost felt like he had to vow in reverence to it. As the crowds started dispersing and he could focus on the information card, he saw that it was Asia in his continents series. This was incredible…he still couldn't believe Feliciano hid such an enormous talent from his online presence. He was about to settle to the right and start with the next one, but that's when he heard the call.

“Ludwig…Ludwig!” And Feliciano pushed himself through the crowds, a beacon, even if he was but another of the suit claded men. Now he felt more embarrassed about his choice of wear for the day.

He was starting to get used to these welcoming hugs Feliciano gave him, somehow this one more warm and tight. He wondered if he could let him lay in this cuddling with him, but he turned to him with a bright smile, that power enough for Ludwig to not get disappointed at being released from his hold.

“You came!”

“Of course I did, you invited me.”

“You could have just not shown up, Ludwig! It means a lot that you took the effort! Come! I'll be your personal guide!” And he took his arm, glued it there just like in his fantasy.

They walked by all of them, North America, South America, Australia, Europe, Africa, even Antarctica. Ludwig made sure to Feliciano how amazing he thought all of them were, detailing, asking his questions, and Feliciano took everything well to his heart, amazed, chattering on and Ludwig never wanted the day to end.

“I was close to making Antarctica…just a penguin,” Feliciano chuckled.

“A penguin with jewels and the power to create ice castles,” Ludwig aided in his idea.

“Oh! The water would have sparkled then! And I could have used my glittery silver paint! …that was expensive and it’s still gathering dust in my art box.”

“You could still just do it.”

“Where could I put up a picture of a penguin with ice powers?”

“I’m sure Gilbert and I could buy it from you.”

“It would look so weird in Gilbert’s apartment.”

Ludwig scoffed, “you clearly don’t know my brother if you don’t think some sort of Elsa penguin would fit perfectly in his apartment.”

They laughed, joyous and shining singular in this crowd. How happy, how serene…how a single person could ruin it all. It was like the magic that kept Feliciano alight was suddenly switched off like a button. He deflated, what had been a large smile was now a deep frown and Ludwig felt intense emptiness as Feliciano let the hands that were holding to his arm fall down to his own sides. Ludwig followed Feliciano’s gaze and that’s when he noticed the man that was approaching them. Tall, pale, deep dark hair, the same color of his beard, of his eyes…of his presence.

“Feliciano, who is this?” He suddenly asked with a glare in Ludwig's direction.

Ludwig kept himself from showing his own, trying to keep his expression singular without emotion. As bland as everyone tended to say he was.

“Oh…this is Ludwig, Gilbert's younger brother. Ludwig, this is Keron, my boyfriend.”

Oh…so this was him. Ludwig had thought he would feel more hurt at seeing him…but he didn't. Yes, he was handsome, attractive, several gave him wanting looks, but the glances the couple shared…were not at all loving or taken…it worried him more that Feliciano actually looked scared.

“Ah…a Beilschmidt then.”

“He's visiting from Bayern, he has a bet with his brother,” Feliciano tried to humor, but Keron strengthened his glare at Feliciano, who took it as enough to silence.

Ludwig was starting to quickly understand why Gilbert had called him an asshole.

“So, Gilbert told you to come?” He suddenly seemed defensive, posing as if ready to fight.

“I invited him,” Feliciano prodded, beginning to anger. “We've become really good friends and I thought he would like to see my works.”

“Impressive, don't you think?” At least he complimented Feliciano's art.

“Yes…it's absolutely beautiful.” Keron was very suspicious of the smile Feliciano suddenly wore. “But they're not for sale and he's not going to make you any special offers just because you've suddenly become buddies.”

Ludwig was astounded. “I'm sorry, but that was never my intention. I came just to support him.”

“He's never asked anything from me, Keron,” Feliciano added.

“I apologize…I'm only worried somebody could misuse my boyfriend's talent.” He took an arm and wrapped it around Feliciano's waist, forceful, caging, Ludwig didn't miss how uncomfortable Feliciano looked. “I'm looking out for him…he's been mistreated.”

Ludwig could now only stare at how poisoning the hold they shared looked. “You won't get that from me.”

“Good then, so, Feliciano, I think your time here is done.”

“Not really, I still have to-” There was another glare, intense, practically screaming at Feliciano to silence and do as commanded…and he followed, downing much more to a grayness that was…incredibly unlike him. “I-I'm sorry, Ludwig, but we…have to go now. I'll see you at rehearsals.” He was only allowed a simple little wave before Keron turned him away and began leading their exit.

“I'll see you at…rehearsals…” Ludwig whispered left on his own…broken after what had been such a bliss.

It had only been a fantasy, another dream of the many after that fateful day he had found his YouTube channel. But this one…it had seemed so close to becoming real.

They were walking down something of dreams, he was holding his arm, smiling up at him and they were laughing. He honestly thought that dinner scene would be a sure reality…but now he was here…just arrived at his brother's apartment, empty and seeming colder than it had been that February he had arrived.

There was bread…there was cheese and ham and butter…he could prepare himself something…but Ludwig couldn't, he had no appetite, no need for even the lights of the kitchen. He simply sat there in thought, his mind not on the hurt of seeing Feliciano with his boyfriend, but on the worry, of the fear in his eyes, in his whole body, while Keron looked more predatory, as if dealing with an animal instead of an adoring, kind and wonderful person. He hadn’t noticed at all Gilbert’s usual loud footsteps, hadn't even flinched as he just threw himself into the apartment, humming some tune, unaware in a bliss that Ludwig actually wanted to have. He halted completely at seeing his brother sitting in a dark corner in the kitchen.

“Hey,” he greeted, turning on the light. Ludwig didn't seem to react to it either. “I’m going to assume a rendezvous with Feliciano didn’t happen.”

“Worst.”

“Oh…did he slap you?”

“No…I met Keron.”

“Oh, the dirtbag!”

“You know, Gilbert…usually I try to be more civil with all the people you dislike and I try to make you find reasoning and understanding so you don’t act like such a child in front of these people.” Gilbert nodded, knowing that it had helped with saving some of the relationships he had back in Bayern. “But…this guy…truly is an asshole.”

Gilbert glowed at the use of the word coming from his brother’s mouth. He looked so proud. “I’m glad your jealousy has finally made you understand me!”

“It isn't actually jealousy, it’s more…I…I’m worried about Feliciano.” This had suddenly turned serious, Gilbert knowing to act accordingly, seriousness in his expression as he took the chair opposite Ludwig. “He…made Feliciano leave early.”

“From his own exhibition?”

“Exactly. He then accused me of using Feliciano to get…cheaper paintings.”

Gilbert rolled his eyes, “when the guy is surely using Feliciano to get a cheaper price at that Tuscan farm.”

“Gilbert I…honestly would have been jealous if I’d seen the guy be nicer and loving to Feliciano…but he wasn’t at all, just possessive and controlling.”

“Feliciano is seriously wasted on him.”

“Does Feliciano actually have feelings for him?”

“He had a crush on him back when he was still in Italy. But Feliciano was practically secluded. He barely had any contact with people. So if you meet some tall, older and dashing friend of your father’s, of course you’re easy bait for whatever this sicko wants. I don’t know his feelings for him right now, they’re hard to tell.”

“Has anyone talked to Feliciano, made him realize?” He continued to worry.

Gilbert sighed, “we’ve tried, but like I told you before, he refuses to believe whatever we say. He really believes Keron is only trying to help him.”

“Do you have any proof that he’s just using Feliciano?”

“Only that his brother Lovino once overheard him talking to their father about ‘taking care of Feliciano’”.

That made Ludwig flare, having to bring it down by heavily clenching the fist he kept up. “Nothing else?”

“Trust me, Lud, we’re trying to help the best we can without putting Feliciano in danger. Anything else we find out, we’ll let you know…or you let us know…who knows?” He stood to start getting things from the fridge.

“...I will,” he was determined.

Gilbert smiled, “that’s good to hear. Now, do you want mett with your abendbröt?”

Rodrich was in Berlin, and there was a big uproar in the theater when Ludwig had arrived. He was so busy with the large groups surrounding him that Ludwig had given up on greeting him. Feliciano, unlike Ludwig, kept a faithful lookout on his old caretaker and music teacher, hoping for any chance to jump with his welcoming embrace.

“You might as well just fight off everyone around him,” Ludwig told him as he joined his side by his little work desk by the stage.

Feliciano smiled as a greeting to Ludwig. “I don’t want to fight anybody though, I’m sure I’ll get the chance soon enough.”

“What’s the big deal though?”

“Oh, Ludwig, he's only one of the greatest pianists and orchestrators in the whole world!”

“He’s still just my cousin Rodrich.”

Feliciano giggled. “He’s going to make the melodies for the show, also for the lyrics you already created.”

“I actually brought a whole new one today,” he raised his notebook, bookmarked with the page he had written it in. Feliciano instantly took it and read through. “Hey!” Ludwig insulted.

“Ooohhh! This is beautiful!” Feliciano already complimented. “Short, simple, but still the perfect dreary!” He smiled as proudly as if he had made it himself.

“It is the song from the demons the comet projects.”

“Oh, it’s going to creep me out a lot if I see it performed.”

“That’s the goal,” Ludwig smirked, able to take back his notebook by wrapping an arm around Feliciano’s back and snatching it. It was a small close moment where the exchange of their eyes was focused, enchanting and beautiful and neither could help the laugh.

“Ludwig, nice to see you out of that farm,” Rodrich now faced them, looking his usual annoyed self.

“Rodrich…Opa asked a lot about you and you rarely visited.”

“I sent him christmas and birthday cards.”

“It wasn’t enough.”

“I made ‘Louis’ in his honor.”

“You could have at least performed it for him in person.”

“Especially if it was about his wife,” Feliciano actually cut in and Ludwig wanted to shout in pride.

Rodrich used it as the perfect way to diverge the topic. “Feliciano, dear, good to see you.”

And Feliciano jumped and laughed and couldn't help rushing towards him for a strong hug.

“How’s your mother doing?”

“The best she can be in the situation.”

“She’ll get through this I know.”

Feliciano sighed, “I hope so too.”

“Uh…dear, we have to hurry,” Erszèbet said, joining his side, taking his arm sweetly and Feliciano couldn't help but feel jealous at such a loving display.

“Gotta go, we have to meet for some tea before I leave. I have a show in Mexico City next week.”

“You’re not going to be here for the rest of the rehearsals…or when it plays?” Ludwig questioned.

“Ludwig, you doubt my capabilities. I’ll finish the first half of the melodies in the next week so you can rehearse on your own. If there are any changes, I can simply send the new notes over by email. Don’t worry, I’ll be here again sometime and in July for the opening night at least.” He spared no more words as he left to other large groups demanding of him.

Business regarding the show continued in its usual for the day, the only difference was having Rodrich at a piano testing out different melodies, Francis with him making approvals or recommending changes. Others would sometimes barge in making their own remarks, but Ludwig and Feliciano stayed to their area content with just listening and watching.

He played what would be the children’s introduction, lovely and peaceful, then a song to play right before the first song, one perfect for the turbulence of a city in the 18th century. He added rhythm and height to Ludwig’s ‘Rumors in Berlin’. Ludwig had to admit, he got chills at hearing these voices enunciate his words along with the order Rodrich created.

There were other melodies for the night of the city when Lorenz decides to make his escape, as well as for the comet’s passing and the cursed performances. Feliciano found himself clapping along with the rest whenever Rodrich finished and Ludwig had to grin, admitting the music was coming along really well, much more than he had expected.

“Ah, Rodrich! You have saved me for the day!” Francis praised, close to giving the other an embrace but it seemed Rodrich had limits as to who could do that, raising a hand to keep him from continuing.

“Yes, yes, yes, save your praises for after opening night. Now, I still have some time for one more song.”

“Oh! Oh! Oh! Oh!” Feliciano suddenly shouted from his lean. “Ludwig has the lyrics for the demon song!”

Ludwig couldn't believe he would throw him out like this, eyes widened and giving a troubling stare to Feliciano. “What? Come on, the lyrics are really cool and I really want to see Rodrich make something for it!”

“I haven't shown the lyrics to Francis yet!”

“Doesn't matter, we can still make something and Francis can say whatever as we go along. Bring me these words, please!” Rodrich called, a hand already offered, expecting to have it that instant.

Ludwig grunted but came forward, deciding on ripping the page from his notebook. No way was he going to let his snooping cousin go through his writings. Feliciano didn’t give it a thought and he was grateful for that…he actually had stuff from Julius Roma in there. Rodrich didn't mind, despite the side glare he gave the notebook before Ludwig hid it in one of his jacket pockets.

He read through the words…in a very long silence that was only making Ludwig uncomfortable.

“Is Natalya here?” Rodrich suddenly asked.

“She's in the building, yes,” Liên went and texted her to come.

“I need her for this part,” Rodrich already got his fingers ready into position in the meantime. Ludwig had to admit it was rather interesting how he could suddenly make them up on the spot like that.

“You want Natalya to sing? Already?” Francis was surprised. “She's only meant to sing for the last song, when she makes her grand appearance!”

“She doesn't have to show up, Francis. I just truly believe this song will fit her voice…take it as a scene where Lorenz hears her voice for the first time, a warning, sign to leave or never return,” Rodrich said it as ominously, clearly in the mindset that Ludwig knew would create the perfect music for it.

“What is it?” Nataly came in from one of the backstage rooms, rested, calmed….but still annoyed.

“Take this,” Rodrich offered the single sheet of paper with the lyrics.

“What's this trash?” She picked it with a pinch and kept it away from her as if it stunk.

“I need you to follow the words and try to keep up with me.” Rodrich didn't even look at her, he only stretched his fingers one last time before he laid them on the keys and started.

A simplistic melody began, mist in a dark night, an imagery of howling sounds you don’t want to be present for. Natalya was instantly captivated by it, pulling her to sing, a hush, to go along with a creeping wind.

“I run in the night
A shadow, I hunt
I'll kill the dark with beacons of light, of light”

Natalya’s voice was just the darkness and fantasy that fitted, alighting her, and for once…she actually enjoyed doing something for this show her brother has insisted she participated in.

As Rodrich continued this part of the song, Francis made notes of what instruments they could add, knowing they needed more strength than just the piano.

“Don't fear us
Our time has come
We bleed for our freedom
Don't fear us
The night has won
It's our blood
Our freedom”

Rodrich went on, by himself, and Natalya saw it was best, Rodrich reigning well in his moment and no one dared to break such a mystical call of music. Natalya actually had an idea, just that moment noticing a group that were working on composing Rodrich’s piano melody to other instruments. She knew they also sang. She pointed rather roughly at them, command enough, four coming to inspect the words quickly before they sang along with Natalya this time.

“Don't fear us
Our time has come
We bleed for our freedom
Don't fear us
The light has won
It's our blood
Our freedom”

A perfect sudden choir no one had been expecting. Rodrich breathed out in relief and in ending, and it was just as he had the full applause of all that were there. It was the loudest ruckus, many stopping what they were doing to witness such grandiose. He faced a palm to Natalya for her applause, bowing…with an actual smile, the others who joined bowing along as Natalya motioned to them, knowing they had deserved it.

“Write this! Write this! It must go exactly like this for the show! You four! You shall now perform as well!” Francis called out as Liên wrote everything down. The four girls were shocked, but didn't seem to mind, with blushes and grins finding it a wonderful chance.

Ludwig and Feliciano grinned between one another, part of the applauses and hollers that filled the room.

Ludwig was actually glad that his words helped to create such a moment.

“-It should start with the dark sand thing, but then when the second chorus hits. It needs gold! Tons of it! It will glitter like the heavens!” Feliciano was excited, sketchbook in hand along with his pouch of pencils ready to create it…even though he was currently walking with Ludwig down the halls and meaning to head out of the theater.

“You know those silver armors you doodled last time? Why not have some of the dancers use it for that number? With your idea I think it will suit well.”

Feliciano glowed and awed, with the sparks that were surely igniting in his mind to create. “That's perfect, Ludwig!” He was excited.

“You do have to talk about it with the costume designers though,” Ludwig reminded.

“Aiden is the head there, I know he'll let me.” He was sure.

“The Welsh guy?”

“Mhm. He actually has all his brothers working in the department, just to make sure that everything is possible. Those guys are amazing with getting all the stuff we need. I'm sure silver armor would be nothing.”

“How many brothers are they?”

“They're five! Isn't it cool?”

“Working all together? My brother and I couldn't be capable of something like that…and were just two.”

“Neither would I with my own brother,” he chuckled. “But if-” A loud honk interrupted their conversation. And there was a shiny brand new sports car greeting them, porsche, silver and looking ready to make a loud boom through the city.

“Hey, babe! Look what I was able to get with the last commission!” Keron shouted from the driving seat, a way too grand smile and sunglasses that Ludwig was finding useless in this gray day.

“Ooohhh, that does look really nice,” Feliciano complimented, coming over and firstly being impressed by just the color, the form and the shine, his hands smoothing over it enjoying the clean glow.

“I know. And you know what, I did one of your stupid ideas and named the damn thing.”

“Oh…” Feliciano was momentarily hurt. “What’s its name?” He now just felt…stupid and Ludwig glared, hating this.

“Felicitous!” Keron was too proud and Feliciano was not as impressed as he had surely wanted. “Whatever. Get in and let’s go. We’re going out for dinner.”

Ludwig knew Feliciano would have instantly alighted at the chance of food, but now…he looked doubtful, scared…as if the fancy sports car was already reading to him disaster.

“Feliciano…” Keron warned, like that of a scolding parent.

“Uh…yeah, uh…sure.” He seemed choiceless as he opened the door, but not before turning to Ludwig. “I’ll see you at the pizza party this weekend. If there’s anything else you need for the presentation to the parents, let me know.”

“Don’t worry, Feliciano, just…enjoy your evening,” Ludwig had to force out…knowing it would most likely be not.

They smiled as farewell and then Feliciano got in, the door closed and Keron took the chance to drive off before Ludwig could exchange with him anything else. The sound that roared through the street was disturbing and annoying.

Ludwig didn’t understand people’s thing with sportscars.

Chapter Text

It was a larger feast than Ludwig had anticipated. He was sure the entire kita group was there, running and playing, around all the adults that enjoyed drinks, snacks…and pizza. Talim made due on his promise on making a pizza oven, one that Feliciano gave him many compliments on, its use perfection, and he was bringing in pizzas almost infinitely, all kinds and absolutely delicious. He had already promised Ludwig two boxes to bring back to Gilbert. In the meantime, before he was meant to present, Ludwig ate his own with salami and mushrooms, clearly nervous, eyes shocked and occasionally trembling.

“Ludwig, can you please relax?” Feliciano sneaked behind him while waiting for the three he just added to the oven.

“I am relaxed!” He shouted in a disarray…that was clearly not relaxed. “Sorry, just…we only have a couple of days and I’m supposed to convince these parents to let their kids be in the show or Francis cuts the idea completely. We’ve already worked so much to try and make this happen. If they say no, it’s a lot of time and effort wasted.”

“And I’m sure they’ll understand. This meeting is specific to talk and hopefully think of something if they say no.”

“How are we going to fill up the stage you already prepared if not?”

Feliciano shrugged with a serenity that Ludwig had to admit he was jealous of. “We’ll think of something! Really, don’t worry too much about it.”

“I’m going to die.”

“You won’t!” Feliciano laughed, leaning over to take the plate Ludwig had emptied, laying a comforting hand on his shoulder in the meantime. “You’ll see, everything is going to be fine.” Daring he laid a kiss on his cheek before turning to focus on the new pizzas.

Ludwig had to admit…he loved that Feliciano had placed him close enough on his friendship circle to lay these enchanting kisses on him.

“Ludwig!” Yekaterina called, “the parents are ready, it’s time to begin.”

Oh…this was it.

He sighed, mentally getting everything to begin, one last glance to Feliciano who gave him a thumbs up as good luck.

The parents were all gathered, sitting on logs by a fire they made, still some dough and sausages being roasted. Some kids were patient enough to lay by them, also excited to hear Ludwig speak, while you still had others playing in the background.

“Okay, uh…can everyone hear me?”

A lot of nods and whispers of, “ja.”

“Good.” A clap of his hands, another sigh, and he began. “I’m Ludwig Beilschmidt. For the last couple of weeks, I’ve been interning here in the kindergarten. I’m also a writer for the coming show, Komet.”

He went on to explain what the show was about…without Francis’s theatrics. Then he told them that what mattered was just one specific scene, the very introduction. He explained what was meant to happen, that no thorough and harsh routines were expected of them, just to run, dance and do as they pleased on the stage Feliciano had planned. To further convince them he passed around copies of what Feliciano had sketched and pictures of what was already created for the show. He liked that many parents were already entranced by the design, whispers of impression and amazement heard around. He also played the already orchestrated song for the scene, some kids already dancing and parents applauding.

“The show is scheduled to play four times in July. The number is the very first one and it should last a maximum of three minutes. If you are concerned about sleep schedules, they can leave right after the performance. Parents who agree will get backstage approval as well as tickets for all four shows. There is an extra scene where we would need perhaps two or three of the children, but that is completely optional and we are prepared to do something different in the case you deny. We would also need one child to volunteer to appear on the main poster. If you wish, they would only be shown from the back so they would not be recognized.”

“Will all four shows be recorded?” One parent raised a hand to ask.

“Only the first one and that is if everything goes as planned. If not we will have to record the second or third or just the one we would like to save. We will avoid close ups on the children's faces. The spectators will not be allowed to record or take pictures and we have people that will especially guard that no pictures or videos of your children are taken.”

“Do they have to rehearse?” Another parent asked.

“The theater is in Mitte and thus we understand that some of the parents cannot make the trip often. We will have members of our crew come here right during kindergarten hours to prepare them. It's not a strenuous routine and there's a lot of room for improvisation.”

He then went to a box he had brought, opening to reveal many stacks of documents. The first one he brought out looked heavy, surely filled with rules and law clauses and every single detail the parents needed to know about the show and their kid’s involvement. He had worked on this for a whole day with Erszébet and Liên and Ludwig’s bureaucratic soul was in pleasure about it.

“Everything I explained is already here! Each of you will receive a copy and if you comply with letting your child be in the show, just sign in the marked areas. This is voluntary. If you wish not to participate, you will not be in any way penalized and we shall accept your decision.”

Yekaterina and Luis helped to pass along all the documents, parents reading, the noise of pages turning and discussions.

This was it and Ludwig was preparing himself for the worst.

When thinking about going back, Ludwig had somewhat prepared to just tell Yekaterina to throw all the documents away so he could mainly help Feliciano with his own boxes…he…was not expecting to have to carry an extra box of documents…all signed.

“I still…I still can't believe it.”

Feliciano was laughing and had an extra skip on his step…Ludwig was the one carrying all the heavy stuff, the only thing Feliciano held was a bag of leftover cutlery and napkins.

“I told you!”

“You did, you actually did…and part of me thought you were insane.”

“Doesn't look like it now! Looks like we really are going to have that scene.”

Ludwig sighed, relieved…actually happy. Sure, he was carrying heavy and strenuous boxes…but he was doing so next to a happily skipping Feliciano.

“And that's it right? That's all your work for Komet?” Feliciano wondered.

“There's still some scenes and songs missing, but it's nothing as difficult as trying to get twenty-one children to join a theatrical show.”

“I thought you had the whole show done already!”

“I just have the last song! I still have three whole others left.”

“Dio…were nowhere near done,” Feliciano suddenly seemed stressed.

Ludwig sighed, “exactly.”

“Man…I'm still missing so much scenery to finish!” Suddenly he gripped his head as if trying to instantly get it to work.

“Didn't you have much for the first half done?”

“Yeah, but there's still touch ups and we have to test them in rehearsals,” he groaned, suddenly not so excited. “We're missing so little time!”

“Feliciano, we’re still in April…”

“But it's going to be May soon! And then!” He gasped. “We will only have two months left to finish everything!” And this time he muttered on worries in Italian, pacing and going as far as walking off the sidewalk in a disarray.

“Feliciano,” Ludwig tried to call out and yet it was like he was digging his own inner trench. “Feliciano,” he called out again, but he continued in his mother tongue, in his own panic. Ludwig sighed and placed the boxes on the ground. “Feliciano!” He went and took him from his pace on the street, safe with him just as a car was passing by. He grabbed his shoulders, keeping him close and being able to stare into his eyes to make things clear. “You are talented!” Ludwig practically barked, enough of a command to freeze Feliciano in his place. “You have already made masterpieces for the first half of the show!” He let his hands go up to take a hold of his face. “The second half will come just as easily. I have no doubt. You are going to blow this whole city away!” Feliciano smiled, relieved, with a glitter and a reflection that for a moment Ludwig wondered if he would just start crying. “What did you tell me today? Relax. Everything is going to be fine. You'll see.” Ludwig couldn't help the slight caress of his thumb and Feliciano just leaned more into it. Ludwig wished he could take his whole body in a promise of success, but a growing light on the street stopped whatever impulse that could have created it. Ludwig turned and had to really convince himself not to groan and roll his eyes at the familiar sports car.

“What are you doing so close to my boyfriend?” Keron asked.

“Nothing, I just wanted to tell him something. Do I put these in the trunk?” Ludwig raised the boxes.

Keron simply nodded and motioned to the back and Ludwig followed, grinning at how Feliciano followed him instead of taking the already offered passenger seat. Sadly, when they were finished…Feliciano was left with no other choice, hesitant in taking his seat…and his eyes never leaving Ludwig. “So, until next time, Ludwig!” He waved.

“That will be with the kindergarten. They're going to send Toris of all people to start preparing them with the choreography, that's going to be interesting.”

For some reason Feliciano cringed.

“What?” Keron questioned.

“It's uh…it's uh…for the show!”

“Yes. Feliciano and I took an internship here, so we can help out the kids for it…also it's just been nice.”

It didn't heal at all Feliciano's concern, Keron's turning malicious. “You took an internship in a kindergarten?”

Ludwig then realized his mistake.

Feliciano clenched and took a deep breath. “Yes…yes I did. It's only once a week for a couple of hours in the morning.”

“You have the show where you're the stage designer for all the acts, the galleries you exhibit in, the trial for the farm, then you have your dumb flute lessons with Gilbert.”

Ludwig was rather insulted for his brother…Feliciano really enjoyed them and they truly learned so much…and then to have his boyfriend call them dumb. Ludwig would have screamed…but Feliciano just looked down…dejected, hurt and defenseless.

“Not to mention another of your…home jobs.”

Ludwig guessed he was talking about his onlyfans. He did well to just shut and pretend he didn't know what he was talking about, Feliciano was shaking and playing with his fingers.

“And now you're telling me you're doing an internship at a kindergarten?”

“I…I really wanted to.”

“I don't care, Feliciano. It's too much.”

“It's not…really…it's not as stressful as other stuff I do.”

“I live with you, I know what's stressful. You can't keep doing this, I won't let you. I don't want you going to the kindergarten anymore.”

Ludwig was just as shattered as Feliciano.

“No…no, please, I really enjoy it-”

“I don't want to hear it. You're not going anymore and that's final.”

Feliciano rose himself, his arms began a circling as if trying to get words, shout, scream and Ludwig was ready to defend him on it…but in the end…Feliciano just took a loud deep breath and fell into the seat, a hand grasping at his hair to try and stable his shakiness…the tears gathering in his eyes.

“Keron, really, Feliciano has-”

“Fuck off. Don't get involved.” Keron threatened before he turned the engine and insistently had them driving, Ludwig left empty and alone.

Ludwig arrived at his brother's apartment in a maddened frenzy. He slammed the box with the documents on the hall ground, smashed open his bedroom door and with the same force closed it. He spat, he growled, all kinds of insults he knew from Gilbert's mouth. If his grandfather and mother heard him now, they would cry in disappointment.

Keron was an asshole, major captain asshole, asshole that he wanted to strangle. Never had he ever wanted to harm another being like this, but if it gave Feliciano freedom, he would push him down a flight of stairs, punch him in the face…or even bite him. Feliciano did not deserve this, such misery, such limits…he was twenty five! A talented, bright, creative, kind and beautiful man full of great magnitudes…and he was being chipped away by an asshole.

He fell into his chair and slammed his hands against the desk, anger still boiling and hating that there was nothing he could but just stare and accept whatever the jerk did. He gripped, he wondered…something…could he do something? He had no idea…he looked at the notebooks and pens before him. Ludwig sighed…he couldn't free Feliciano that instant…but he could write and he could make words for him.

Leave it to Julius Roma to save the day.

To the side he turned on his laptop, went to youtube to play the last cover song Feliciano had made. An italian song called ‘Solo te e me’. The original song had an atrocious rap part, but Feliciano did amazingly only singing the beautiful melodic chorus. It played as backdrop while Ludwig wrote:

“We are the only ones awake in the whole universe
And I still don't know well your desert
Maybe it is in a place of my heart
Where the sun is always off
Where sometimes I lose you
But if I want I catch you
We are stopped in such a time
That lifts the roads
With the sky one step away from here
We are the monsters and the fairies
I should call you
To tell you the thing I am feeling
But my apologies are finished
And I have no defenses anymore.”

On and on words came, words that were then typed to their chat room, and off they went, hoping to make Feliciano smile for the night.

It had been a gorgeous morning, warming and nice, the call of the birds much more potent than other days Ludwig had come. Sure, he was surrounded by screaming children, and yet Ludwig felt lonely. He hadn’t realized how much he depended on Feliciano’s presence for the kindergarten days. A lot of games they tended to plan together, on their breaks chatting on whatever and it was just nice to see him, nice to see his smile, nice to see how his brown curls shine at whatever light, his energy, his joy. Despite the beautiful day…it felt gray. He angered thinking about Keron again, a grimace that soured his face, some children feeling intimidated and knowing that today was perhaps not a good day to go to Ludwig.

“You don’t look okay, Ludwig,” Isabella had noticed and worded.

“Why would you think that?” He thought he was still showing his usual self to the kids.

“You look…angrier than usual…I think Feliciano kept you happy.”

Well…she was right.

“Did Feliciano get sick? Why is he not here today?” She asked innocently and Ludwig couldn't answer in brashness that it was because of a toxic asshole.

“Uh…the U-bahn is on strike.”

“Oh…maybe there’s no strike next time!”

Bless that they seemed to live far away from any ubahns to know he just made that up.

“I…really hope so.”

“Yekaterina is being really slow today,” she noticed and wanted Ludwig to as well. And…upon inspection…she was right, for some reason Yekaterina lagged way far behind this time, her breaths strained, looking tired and like this simple stroll through the forest was taking the toll of a long hike. There were children that of course worried, many standing by her or offering to bring things.

“Let’s sit by the oak tree, Yekaterina! And we can do a morning circle!” One boy led her to sit on the chosen tree, the rest doing well to follow instantly and fall into a circle without even being told, Ludwig included.

Yekaterina took a deep breath before she turned to them with her motherly smile. “Today especially…has been difficult.”

“Are you sick too, Yekaterina?” One boy wondered with deep concern, kneeling next to her.

“No, no, no, just…something different. I'll let you all know soon. But I'm sorry guys, I really don't have something for our morning circle today.”

“That's okay, Ludwig is here!” One girl claimed.

“Yeah! Ludwig can tell us another story today!”

“What?” When did they decide this? Why was he to do this? He will not! He would not stoop down to…to…They were already surrounding him, big eyes, expectant and eager. They all looked…adorable and Ludwig sighed knowing he had lost whatever battle he wanted to start to avoid this.

“Oh…very well then…”

They all celebrated and Ludwig suddenly concocted something in the leftovers of his anger. “Once upon a time, there were four kingdoms. Clubs, Diamonds, Spades and the focus of our story Hearts.”

And so began the epic tale of an arising queen from a little province like Italy and his romance with the future king. From childhood friends, to separation and a hateful reunion. Feasts and balls, a failed proposal. A journey around the four kingdoms, love grows again, secrets that reveal the arising queen as the great grandson of a goddess, meant to fulfill prophecies and facing the evil Kero-he meant uh…Khaos. Preparing for war, with a coronation, a wedding…and then future heirs. Initial battles, fears, lockings, death and a dark rampage of all the lands. The arising queen makes a journey to the afterlife to find a power that will put an end to Khaos. Not only does he defeat Khaos, but he saves his husband, he saves the four kingdoms, he releases those that have been trapped for centuries and begins a reign with peace and love along with seven of their own children.

“-and that dark disgusting Khaos was never to threaten them again, and so the King and Queen could live happily ever after forever more.”

The kids were awestruck and frozen. Now that Ludwig thought about it…perhaps this tale was not the age appropriate for them.

“Whoa…that's a lot!” One girl finally worded.

“I want to be the Supreme goddess!” It was one boy that declared, going up, running about and shooting pretend magic.

“I’m going to be the winged lion!” Another boy stood and spread his arms in pretend flight.

“I’m Pisa!” A girl went and joined.

“I want to be the Hearts King!” One boy took.

And so all the kids made their part and went and either repeated Ludwig’s words or made their own new tales that Ludwig had to admit…made him smile as he witnessed them. At least it left him and Yekaterina some lonesome peace.

“That was some…interesting tale you made up just now,” Yekaterina said.

“I felt inspired.”

She smirked, “I'm sure Feliciano has granted you enough.”

Ludwig flushed and stuttered, “wh-wh-why why would you think that?”

“You let your names slip sometimes. You were the Heartian King and he was the Queen, Keron the evil god who wanted to destroy everything.”

He flushed redder in embarrassment, bringing his hand to pinch at his forehead as punishment for making such a severe mistake.

“Something happened, I'm going to assume…explaining why he’s not here,” Yekaterina wondered.

Ludwig sighed, “kind of my fault…I told Feliciano I would see him next time here and then Keron found out he’s doing the internship. I realized why he didn’t know…Keron told Feliciano he didn't want him coming here again because apparently he’s doing…too much.”

Yekaterina sighed and rolled her eyes. “It’s just as Gilbert always tells us, he’s just trying to control every aspect of his life. A shame. Too much or not, Feliciano is very capable, and if you truly loved him, you would be celebrating his achievements, all of them…not trying to minimize them and bar him from absolutely anything that you believe is a threat.”

Ludwig sighed, “why would Feliciano not realize that?”

“I believe he will…he has to…or else it would completely lose him.”

Ludwig had pure terror in his eyes.

“Ludwig…I’m sure he'll do it…he just needs some help to realize it…I hope you can be it,” she smiled and it gave Ludwig some confidence. “Speaking of help…can you help me stand up?” She sheepishly asked.

“Are you really okay? The kids had been worried about you all morning.” He did stand to offer.

She was shaky and the simple raise was enough to harden her breath. “Well…I’ve reached a certain point that I believe is safe to tell people.” She looked around, making sure the kids were too far to hear. “I'm pregnant,” she admitted.

Ludwig's eyes widened, “really?”

“Yes, three months in.”

“Congratulations…Sadiq knows, right?”

“Of course! We’re just waiting on a more opportune moment to tell the kids and everybody else. Should be soon. I’ll extend an invitation…and to Feliciano as well,” she winked and he looked away.

“When are you thinking of taking maternity leave?”

“Just the third trimester. Should be good for the next three months.”

“Yekaterina…no offense…but from what I’ve seen today, you don’t look good enough to keep working like this.”

“Ludwig…what did I tell you at the beginning?”

“I get it, you’re not enough people, but do you really have to risk yourself and the baby like this?”

She sighed, “unless you have some new marvelous suggestion…this is what I have to do.”

Ludwig grimaced but accepted.

They gathered all the kids, Ludwig’s voice a potency and power that had them scurrying to his side and following a march back to the campsite. He offered Yekaterina to take his arm, everyone was careful of her and it made Ludwig hopeful that perhaps she had a way to deal with twenty-one children…and a pregnancy. Luis and Talim knew, with the way they hurried and helped to carry her to near a seat, getting her water, speaking in whispers surely asking about the baby. Caged they were that the children didn’t bother to ask them anything…they all went to the only available person. And so Ludwig took control of…twenty-one kids. He helped them with their lunch, put into line the really rowdy ones, yet participant how they could in their games, even hugging the ones that asked for it. When the parents started picking them up, he knew well what to respond when they asked, working as sufficient as if he had always been there. He had ended up staying much longer than usual, helping Luis, Talim and Yekaterina to close up.

“I’m coming tomorrow too, by the way,” he had declared without another word as he made his exit. The three were left stupefied…but refused to deny…they truly were in need. Ludwig had no plans for the next day anyways, so might as well actually do something productive and make things easier for Yekaterina.

He went back to the apartment…not feeling like eating anything else but just…bread. Gilbert wasn't there yet, he had mentioned some meeting at the museum. He didn't feel like doing anything else but just lay in bed, working on some of the missing songs and scenes for the play…almost there. And Feliciano was on his mind…he couldn't avoid him. He fetched his phone and went to their chat box…just meeting points, telling each other when they would meet, if one was coming late because of a canceled bus or a train that didn't work. He always hesitated to send him a message, shaky fingers that never really initiated something, but today…he thought he should let him know, acting on bravery and partly on what was right to do.

‘Today was a really good day at the kindergarten. We all missed you…I'm sorry I let it slip that you were doing the internship.’

He received a quick reply. ‘Don't worry, Ludwig! I should have told you. I did miss being in the kindergarten today. The day was boring without you.’ And Ludwig smiled, telling himself that he was just being a dear friend…no need to get his heart bursting and believing when it wasn't more.

‘Do you have any free time soon?’ Ludwig found himself asking.

‘They say it's going to be really warm sometime in the next few days. When it comes, do you want to take a bike ride around the city? I really want to use my bike again and I'm sure it's going to be lovely.’

That honestly…sounded great and he told him so, making plans and routes despite the fact that…he didn't even have a bike here. He'd have to ask Gilbert. He probably had some old decrepit thing he needed to fix. He sighed and went over to youtube to get some reminders on how to fix one, preparing himself for the worst thing Gilbert could have. He had chosen his video and was getting comfortable ready to watch, when he noticed in his recommendations…Feliciano had a new song video. He quickly went for it instead and let the melody instantly begin. He had his mandolino ready…but he was saddened…the strings he pulled a tragic call.

“Siamo i soli svegli in tutto l'universo
E non conosco ancora bene il tuo deserto,”

It took him a while to realize those were the last words he wrote to him…only this time he had translated them. That was odd…he had never done that before…but it was not wrong, if anything it brought a new intensity.

“Se questa è l'ultima
Canzone e poi la luna esploderà
Sarò lì a dirti che sbagli, ti sbagli e lo sai
Qui non arriva la musica.”

His voice was intense and perfect, yet Ludwig felt melancholy, a deep sadness he had never expected Feliciano to omit.

“Spegni la luce anche se non ti va
Restiamo al buio avvolti solo dal suono della voce
Al di là della follia che balla in tutte le cose
Due vite, guarda che disordine,”

Suddenly anger, letting the last words of the song ring much more powerful, the song ending with him tired, falling and Ludwig wanting to embrace him…because it looked like he was about to cry.

The video was over without a farewell, without a smile, and Ludwig sighed, closing the laptop and promising him that bike outing…he needed to be his usual vibrancy, and Ludwig wanted to make sure it could shine bright no matter the darkness that loomed in his own home.

Chapter Text

That one morning…Ludwig woke up feeling…warm. The sun was shining bright, birds were singing and…he heard laughter on the streets. Laughter, like this…in Berlin? No, that couldn't be possible. He ended up kicking the blanket away, opening the curtain slightly to reveal a beautiful blue day, showcasing the greens and the flowers that were blooming in the park. There were people practically skipping, with smiles and of course, glad to be wearing one less coat and jacket, no need for scarfs and hats. This was truly…a perfect day, even for Berlin.

Ludwig went and got himself ready, presentable for Feliciano and to use a bike. Bag ready, a helmet under his arm, he was about to march down the stairs…but halted at the scene that was in the kitchen.

“Aahh…Ja!” Gilbert was only wearing a bathrobe, exposing his chest completely to the opened window, for the sun to shine right on him. He swayed and even moaned out like a fool.

“Gilbert…what the hell?” Ludwig had to ask.

“Brüder…this is the first warm day of the year! Let me enjoy it! Let me savor it! Aahh yeah, my plan is to stay like this for the whole day.” He put his hands on his hips as if to emphasize and the rope around it only loosened more.

Ludwig was fearing the worst. “Cover yourself and wear sunscreen!”

“Hell no! It makes me sticky and disgusting!”

“You'll get a terrible burn if you don't! You're albino, Gilbert! Something like this could kill you!”

Gilbert scoffed, “the sun can't do shit to me! It can go fuck off.”

“Do you seriously want to fight the sun?”

“I'll beat its ass!”

Ludwig rolled his eyes. You know what, whatever, let Gilbert do his thing, he'll berate him the next time he's at the hospital for intense sun burns…again.

He sighed, “good luck with that then. By the way, where's your bike?”

“What do you want it for?”

“I, uh…I'm going on a bike ride with Feliciano.”

Gilbert turned to him with a teasing smirk. “Hm, perfect day for a romantic ride through the city,” he wiggled his eyebrows.

“Stop, we’re just enjoying the day.”

“Yeah, sure, Mr. googly eyes and Feliciano has me wrapped around his finger.”

“Where’s your bike?” He demanded strongly.

“It’s in the inner yard, come on.”

Gilbert didn't bother to change, with just his bathrobe he led him down, to a square where many bikes were parked. “It’s that one there!” He pointed.

“Ah…the black one with the Prussian eagle…of course.” At least it looked really well…no need for any kind of fixing.

“I named it Friedrich.” Gilbert was too proud.

“You really don’t have another one?”

“Nope! You will ride this stead and make your Prussian heritage proud!”

“The only one who wants to be proud about our Prussian heritage is you.”

“Well at least make me proud then!”

Ludwig rolled his eyes, “Fine.” He went to it, honest in liking how easy it was to carry, light, wheels and form that showed it could go fast and overall practical and useful. It was clean, no weird sounds or weird functions as he did a test run.

“Wow, it's actually in good shape.”

“I actually use it from time to time you know! I have to keep it working!”

“I have to get going,” Ludwig realized.

“Don't break my bike!” Gilbert warned lastly.

“I won't!” Ludwig shouted as he brought it outside.

Okay, he was to meet Feliciano near his own place. It was a half hour ride…in a city like Berlin. If Ludwig was being completely honest…he was kind of scared. He had only ever ridden his bike on the hills, fields and empty streets by his farm and the nearest villages. This…was a populated, insane and decrepit city. He had read about the dangers, the injuries, the deaths…even with bike lanes and how it was a major use of transportation in the city. Berlin was still considered one of the top bikeable cities in the world…and yet…so much could go wrong, so much could happen. He was about to turn and give up. Perhaps he needed more time to give himself the proper pep talk.

His phone vibrated, a message, Feliciano.

‘There’s a bike shop near my place. I need to go get some things. Can we meet there?’ He already sent the location. And suddenly Ludwig was fueled with a fire that could surely compete with the running cars. He will go out and have an amazing day with Feliciano. He would not let anything stop him now. And off he went…the trajectory being much easier than he had expected. Sure, there were new precautions he needed to take, but it ended up being enjoyable, sneaking in a smile from time to time when he noticed a new blossomed tree. The shop was coming up, just as Feliciano made his exit, going to his own bike to prepare. Ludwig stopped right next to him.

“Morgen,” he wished.

Feliciano exploded with a smile, “Ludwig! Just in time! Look what I got us!” He instantly took out…a sheet of stickers…with cat and dog ears.

“Uh…what is this?”

“For our helmets!” Feliciano declared, taking his own yellow one. He went for one of the cat ears and stuck them confidently. He put it on and was immensely proud of the small detail. “Come on, wear the dog ones!”

“This is childish!” Ludwig complained…as he took off his helmet and decided with putting the german shepherd ears…it reminded him of Berlitz. Despite the annoyed stare…Ludwig still wore the helmet with the stickers…rather nonchalant, strict and serious…but proudly. For some reason it made Feliciano jump and shrill.

“Then come, let's start!” Feliciano got himself ready. “Do I follow you?”

“Would be best, I have the route on my phone.”

“Let's go!”

Ludwig smiled and led the way.

The wind today was perfect, their path smooth and with beauties to admire. How they loved to see everything start to green, the flowers that bloomed and the joy of the people that walked or even rode next to them. They passed some of the main touristic sites, but on and on until they went through unfamiliar areas, Ludwig deciding on going out the decided route mostly to explore, and it only excited Feliciano the more. They took small pauses to drink water and enjoy the breeze that blew, before going on and on in the testing of their energy. At some point they made their own race, sharing teasing grins along. They became…somehow flirtatious…at least Ludwig wanted to believe…or perhaps Feliciano just used his known charm to get him to win their little competition. They ended up in Pankow in some park neither knew. They found a corner for themselves, taking in the last of their water and Feliciano shared his packed collection of fruits. They settled in peaceful silence, breathing and admiring the flowers that surrounded them and the fresh green. Ludwig hoped it was a moment to keep forever, that the sun would stay like that high in the sky and it would never darken to their farewell. He was realizing how much he hated each time they said goodbye.

There was a sudden beeping from Feliciano's watch and Ludwig feared the worst. Feliciano checked and smiled, going to his phone to see a picture…of a cat. “You want to see Pookie?”

“Your cat?”

“Yep.” And he showed him, white and fluffy with brown spots. This cat looked happy…as happy as its owner…Ludwig had never thought a cat could look so joyful.

“He's adorable.”

“I miss him so much.”

“Why couldn't you bring him here?”

“Oh…uh…Keron didn't want animals in his apartment.” Feliciano put his phone away, turning his head, not wanting Ludwig to see his expression.

“They weren't allowed in the building?”

“They…they are allowed, cats especially are preferred, but Keron said he still didn't want any.”

Sure, Feliciano refused to look at him, but Ludwig couldn't stare at anything else, looking annoyed and surely disturbed with this. He couldn't take it any longer. “Feliciano…can I ask you some things…as a good friend that worries about you?”

Feliciano strained, nodding, but surely hesitant.

“Are you…are you happy with Keron?”

“Why…why would you ask that?” He tried to chuckle it away.

“You look…scared when you’re with him. He seems…controlling…and he…I’m sorry, limits you like you were a teenager.”

Feliciano saddened and was more strict on his gaze remaining on some rock on the ground.

“I…shouldn't tell you what to do and you’re free to be with whoever you want, I’m just…concerned for you.”

Silence continued between them and Ludwig accepted it for a period…but then he sighed, “if you were to tell me you actually love him perhaps I would-”

“I don’t love him,” Feliciano declared, strong…yet soothed almost like a whisper.

Ludwig thought it wrong to feel as relieved as he did at that moment. So what? He didn’t actually love Keron. That shouldn’t mean anything to him. It wasn't like that meant his undying devotion to himself instead.

“You…don't? Then…why stay? Why…continue like this?” Ludwig was this time prepared for whatever length Feliciano needed silence.

It was fruitful…eventually Feliciano breathed and sighed out, “he was…for some time the only thing I knew. Friend of the family that I knew for a very long time, one of the very few that visited constantly… I used to find him so cool…out there and I kind of envied how he could just take and have whatever he wanted. He had…made so many things possible for me. He got me expensive paint, canvases and brushes my family couldn't afford, drove me around to towns and would get me whatever I wanted. He explained and settled so many things for me…even being here in Berlin. I had…nothing else to depend on.”

“Feliciano…how old were you when he started being this way with you?”

Of course Feliciano hesitated, trembling, a hand going up and down his arm. “...fifteen.”

“And how old was he?”

“...twenty-seven.”

Ludwig breathed and told himself to settle. He shouldn't explode that instant. “And your…family allowed you to be with him?”

“...Nonno hated him…Mamma and Lovino didn't like him either…but he was one of Papa's best friends…Papa thought it would do me well to be with him, and said I could learn a lot and become like him.”

“And…was it successful?”

“I…want to think not.”

“It was not,” Ludwig surprisingly declared, Feliciano startled. “You're…nothing like him…and I'm saying that in a good way.” Feliciano gave a short grin.

Silence settled between them yet again and Ludwig let them in the breeze.

“I'm not…really happy,” he admitted. Ludwig perked to listen. “I wish…I wish things could be different, but…I feel like I have to stay…there's…things I have to do.”

And it hurt…it hurt Ludwig so much that he couldn't take an instant escape. “Feliciano, if anything, absolutely anything…you can come to me…and Gilbert. He cares and worries a lot about you too.”

“I know…he was…the first person to vocally say something about Keron.”

And Ludwig was proud of his brother. “We're here for you.” I'm here for you.

Feliciano turned and gave him a true grandiose smile…just as both their phones rang. They checked their notifications simultaneously, from the same person, Yekaterina. It was an invite to a BBQ in her and Sadiq's garden colony. They’ll be pools, with warm weather promised, music, friends, chattering and definitely…lots of food. Ludwig thought it hilarious how Feliciano absolutely glowed and brightened at the mention of BBQ food.

“Please tell me you’re coming!” Feliciano practically begged.

“Are you coming?”

“Definitely!”

“Then yes, I’ll be there.”

Feliciano shrilled and then began typing.

“What are you doing?” Ludwig wondered.

“I’m texting my brother for my nonno’s carbonara recipe. I want to see if I can cook it for the BBQ!” A couple of minutes passed and he jumped in celebration, meaning that his brother had surely given it. “Ah, but I would have to prepare it before,” he pouted, but alighted once again with an idea. “Can I make it at Gilbert’s place?”

“You do know he’ll try to intrude and make your dish worse.”

“No! I won’t allow it! Valenti hands only for a Valenti recipe!”

Ludwig chuckled, “Gilbert won’t mind either way.”

“So can I come? Will I see you Saturday morning?”

Perhaps it was true what Gilbert said…that Feliciano had him wrapped around his fingers, whipped and fooled, and he gladly accepted it all. “Of course.”

Ludwig, for his own dignity, kept his excitement to himself, while Feliciano practically danced it out and had it alive even on their bike ride back home.

Chapter Text

Gilbert was ecstatic when Ludwig told him the plan, that Saturday morning already at the door to greet Feliciano first. They both shouted and hugged and swayed like imbeciles as if they hadn't seen each other just a couple of days ago. Ludwig sighed, but then smiled, turning back to the kitchen to finish the coffee he had started for the three of them.

Feliciano had brought bags with the necessary ingredients for the carbonara, as well as some extra snacks like chips, chocolate and even some fancy cheese. They made quick banter and chatted while they had a quick breakfast, before Feliciano thought it was time to start preparing his grandfather's carbonara. He took out the pots and plates, organized the ingredients, even put on the cutest yellow apron with a smiling sun at its front. Ludwig was trying to understand why seeing this was making him so happy, calm, seated well and comfortable in the corner of the kitchen.

“So!” Gilbert stood and rubbed his hands, “how do we start?”

“Oh, no, no, no, no! You stay with Ludwig at the table and tell me about your trip to Moldova.” He went as far as pushing him.

“What? No! My trip to Moldova was shitty! I don't want to talk about it! I want to get my hands on some flour.”

“We're not using flour for this recipe, Gilbert.”

“I want to do something! Look, I can help you with this Parmigiano cheese thing.” He went and grabbed the block to Feliciano's massive insult. Ludwig had to cover his mouth to not show how much he wanted to laugh.

Feliciano went for a wooden spoon and hit Gilbert's hand, forcing him to drop the cheese back at the counter with a shout. “Don't touch the pecorino!”

Gilbert pouted and feigned tears, “hurt…by an angel. Unthinkable. I feel heartbroken and betrayed.”

“Don't mess with my nonno's carbonara!”

Ludwig was impressed at how Feliciano turned and decided to cut the first ingredients, busying himself and leaving Gilbert to pout and tend to his hurt hand.

Gilbert wouldn't remain salty for long though, quickly they settled into chats from the dangers of microplastic, Taiwan, cats and…döner. The scent of the ham began to flow, the creamy eggs, the noodles, both Ludwig and Gilbert were drooling.

“All done!” Feliciano celebrated, putting everything in a large pot to carry over.

“Nice! I'm just going to-” Gilbert reached a hand to take…but he quickly removed it once Feliciano went for the wooden spoon again and began to glare…dangerously. “Fine, fine, fine! Don't mess with your pasta! Got it! Goddammit, you get vicious.” Gilbert left the kitchen to begin to get everything.

“I assume that's our cue to start getting changed,” Ludwig stood.

“Yep! Come I'll help you pick something!” And Feliciano…just went…straight to his room.

He slapped himself at the first indecent thought that came. “Uh…what?” He uttered.

“You're very handsome Ludwig, and we should get you something very nice for today.” He was already going through his wardrobe, checking the thin and short sleeved shirts he had brought.

“You…you think I'm handsome?” He questioned as he heavily blushed.

“Very much,” Feliciano said with such ease…surely the complement of friends.

Ludwig sighed…but he smiled nonetheless. “Is it too much to ask that it stays long sleeved…and long pants?”

Feliciano jerked, “in this weather? Of course not!” It was then that he glowed at a particular shirt, desperately taking it out to turn around in wonder. “Mio dio, Ludwig! This is adorable! You definitely have to wear this one!”

It was a black shirt with a smiling flowery earth logo, the top saying ‘Protect the Earth’.

“I…don’t know,” Ludwig rubbed his arm.

“Feli, Lud really doesn't like showing his arms…and body,” Gilbert chimed in, just zipping the short pants he chose.

“Oh…um…is it a scar?” Feliciano gently asked in a whisper, careful and concerned.

“Oh no, he's actually BUILT!”

Ludwig flushed in embarrassment.

“What?”

“Feliciano, please, Ludwig here dealt with a whole farm by himself the last few years. Do you have any idea how much heavy lifting he has to do? Walking, running. He has to keep in shape!”

“Oh! Then Ludwig, there's nothing to be ashamed of! It shows that you're really healthy, sporty and fit…and this shirt shows that you care for the planet, which I find adorable.”

He almost caved and decided that instant to use it. “People will stare…”

“Lud, people won't care,” Gilbert groaned. “Come on, it’s hot outside. You’re always telling me not to overheat in the summer, well now I’m telling you…don’t overheat!”

Ludwig sighed, beginning to take off his shirt, “fine.”

Feliciano’s eyes widened comically. Ludwig and Gilbert continued discussing and Feliciano really didn’t care…for what. Oh god…Ludwig had abs, he had arms, he was shaped to perfection and Feliciano should really…do something about the drool.

“-but yeah, I need the shirt, Feliciano,” that’s when Ludwig turned and realized how Feliciano had reddened, staring him up and down very obviously. “Uh…”

“Oh! Yes, yes, he-here’s…your shirt,” he offered it almost reluctantly.

“Uh…are you going to help me?” Ludwig dared, he smirked and Feliciano almost blew in red that instant.

“I-you…uh…it’s fine, you-you can do it, all big and…muscly and uh…stuff…um…I’m going to start getting our stuff,” he headed out to the hall quick, afraid they will catch more of his red, focusing hard on gathering everything.

Gilbert had to hold a big laugh, just snickering Ludwig's direction before he went to help Feliciano.

Ludwig…actually smirked.

They could have just done the hour walk or even gone with bikes, but with all the stuff they had, it was best to take the bus. To their luck, there was a stop right next to the colony. They met up with Luis and his wife, Guadalupe. She had Feliciano's same energy and excitement, both running ahead the dirt path chatting loudly for those that were carrying the heavier loads at the back to catch every word perfectly. Sadiq met them at the gate, celebrating with whatever sudden dance Feliciano and Guadalupe joined him in. When Gilbert joined with his horrible moves, they thought it best to stop and just make their way in. There were already plenty of people there, from surely Antonio, Francis, Erszèbet, Liên, Talim and his boyfriend Gael, even Ivan and Natalya. It was there that Ludwig found out that Yekaterina was actually their eldest sister.

Indeed there was food…a lot of it, and Sadiq along with Neeraja only kept it coming as they worked on the grill bringing along all kinds of meats. Gilbert and Feliciano had a hard time trying to put their things on the table. While they did so, Ludwig could actually look at the place.

It was probably the largest in this colony, with space for people to lounge either on the wonderfully cut grass, at the plastic pools, some small ones and a large one, at the sofa, at chairs and tables, or even inside the shed with the TV. The flowers and trees bloomed in their splendor, with bird houses, little statues, fountains, stones, gnomes even. It was beautiful, scented and the product surely of Yekaterina taking good extensive care of it. Ludwig was about to take his stroll to admire everything…if he hadn't caught the sight of Gilbert and Feliciano about to do something incredibly stupid.

“Look! Feli! One of the pools hasn't been taken yet!” He shook his shoulders.

Feliciano gasped and added in his proclaim, “we have to make it ours! I gotta have my lemon beer there!”

“With a little umbrella.”

“An umbrella!”

It wasn't even THAT hot.

“Quick! Raivis is eyeing it, sneaky little bitch!”

“Hurry! Hurry! Hurry!” And they both rushed on it as if their life depended on it. Gilbert threw his shirt off before he jumped and took his spot, Feliciano did the same and Ludwig told himself not to stare too much…as if he hadn't seen him completely bare enough times before. It was just…nice to see him like this…happy, comfortable, a bliss that said peace.

“Ludwig! Ludwig! Come over!” Feliciano shouted.

“Bring us beer though!”

“Fine, fine, coming.” He took a lounge chair near them and gave them their drinks.

Ludwig had expected to be glued to them the entire day, but it wasn't the case. The company present was actually pleasant. He found himself enjoying different conversations with different people while eating all these wonderful exquisite dishes. Feliciano's carbonara was divine.

Night was falling, torch fires were lit and music began. Ludwig wondered when exactly Yekaterina was planning on making the announcement. Clue enough should have been that she kept refusing the alcohol and all the raw things, plus stood far away from all the smokers. He witnessed at some point that Sadiq felt bad for her and started refusing his own drinks…and yet no one seemed to make the connection.

The music had suddenly stopped and Ludwig thought now would be the time. Instead, Gael had taken a microphone connected to a…karaoke machine…oh no.

“Hey, shits! Guess what I brought!”

For some reason that called forward loud celebrating shouts.

“I have prepared a very elaborate table here,” he presented his tablet with country flags, pointing especially to how they glittered the moment he tapped them. “For our own Worldvision! Worst singer wins! Iceland is first! So, Emil! Come over here!”

“Ah, fuck!” And yet the boy went ahead to the front of it all, near to the wall with the largest pool and decided on a rendition of ‘Land of Confusion’. It was…okay.

“Hm, not the worst thing I've heard…I'll put you on 28th place!”

“That's perfectly fine!”

“All right! Argentina! Martin!”

Seemingly out of nowhere, a blond shouted, “woo!” and went ahead with ‘Stuck On You’ by Elvis Presley. He actually did well…which meant one of the last places.

As Gael then called for a Maltese girl…Ludwig made a great realization. He turned to Gilbert and Feliciano, both singing along together as best as they could in silent whispers as to not disturb the one who was singing.

“Gilbert…do you have any other German friends?”

He was about ready to name when he realized…his eyes lost, the finger he was meant to point falling, his eyes widening once he saw. “Oh god, I don't have any other German friends.”

“We're very intercultural,” Feliciano added.

“Then who's going to go for Germany?” Ludwig was beginning to panic.

“Do not worry, mein Häschen! I shall go for Germany!”

“Gilbert, I have done something cool for you,” Gael suddenly called. “You can go for Prussia!” He showed the tablet proudly with the flag.

Gilbert's response was to jump up with a holler, running to the microphone, choosing a Rammstein song and already starting with all the energy and joy as if it was truly intended.

“Du, du hast, du hast mich!”

Everyone loved him, jumping and screaming, and for a moment they could forget that his voice was awful. Feliciano giggled and enjoyed the show along with all the others…something Ludwig couldn’t really do, suddenly fretful.

“Hm, what’s wrong?” Feliciano realized, stopping his join in the crowd to face Ludwig.

“I’m worried they’re going to send me to sing for Germany.” It was a clear panic.

“And?”

“I don’t want to sing in front of people!”

“Is it because of something traumatizing?”

“...no, I’m just…nervous.”

“Du hast mich gefragt und ich hab nichts gesagt!” Gilbert still excited and sang loud to all…and everyone was still having fun despite how Gilbert’s voice was basically like that of a drunk donkey.

“Ludwig, it’s karaoke and it’s just to have fun…your brother is proof of that.”

“Sie lieben auch in schlechten Tagen?”

And yet he moved all these people in a good time filled with laughter.

“I…I don’t know…” Could he create something like what his brother was doing? He felt like he would be a great failure, and rather not expose himself to that ridicule.

As he wondered, Feliciano starred…and then decided to initiate. He took Ludwig’s hand, who reddened at the suddenness, and dragged him to Gael, still dancing along to Gilbert’s ruckus. “Ah, Feli, Italy is up next!”

“Can I do it with Ludwig?”

“What?” Ludwig exploded and Gael was puzzled.

“Uh…” he went through his tablet, “yeah, sure, you can do it with Ludwig. Would you mind going a bit later though?”

Ludwig was about to deny ever going, but Feliciano held his arm tighter and answered quicker, “nope! We’ll be ready then.”

“Awesome! Germany and Italy going together then.” He made the arrangements on his tablet before he turned to focus on the last lyrics from Gilbert’s song.

Feliciano then quickly dragged Ludwig to a calm corner, no one bothering about them as Gilbert made his last epic finish. Another went afterwards and Gilbert busied himself with the crowds that wanted to congratulate him on this sudden performance.

“Feliciano, why did you-”

“Look, we don’t have much time. Listen to what I’m going to tell you.”

“But-”

“Ludwig, we will have fun! Now, I have a song we can sing that we can work well with. I think it can suit your voice.” Feliciano went through his phone.

“Feliciano, I don’t sing.”

“Rodrich is your cousin.”

“Gilbert is my brother and didn't you just hear him sing? I was worried someone would call an ambulance.”

“And you will prove your voice is different! Singing is not just your voice, it takes using your body like pipes. It’s a whole art! You can’t become a singer by just simply using your throat! No! You have to use your stomach, your back, the full power of your lungs! I know you have the capability!”

“I can heavily tell you were taught by Rodrich.”

Feliciano showed his phone. “Exactly! Now come, I want you to listen to the song, it’s not that well known and-”

“Lay me down from Ben Hazlewood? Yeah I know that song, you made a cover for it once. I know it’s not one your most watched, but honestly it’s one of my favorites.”

Feliciano froze, looking up from his phone with a widened expression. “Wait, what?”

Ludwig widened himself when he realized his very heavy mistake. “Uh…” he tried to find whatever excuse that could still work.

“You…you know about my channel?” He looked so…scared, worried…even betrayed slightly and Ludwig was greatly concerned.

He sighed, “yes…yes, I know about it. I listen to you constantly…you have the voice of an angel.” Feliciano was startled to a blush that cooled him from ailment. “But come on, let’s focus! What do you want me to do?”

Feliciano went out of his stupor and detailed the plan he had, suggestions for Ludwig to improve his singing, a strict order that made Ludwig even more attracted to him.

“And here…” Feliciano pointed, “I…I really think you should sing this part.”

“That’s the bridge…a pretty intense one at that.”

“But I really think you’ll make it sound really nice…”

Ludwig sighed, “Feliciano, I’m already going to ruin a large part of this, you should take that.”

“I can't sing this part at the same time as this!”

“You just have to-”

“And after a sudden request! A special! A union! Should I feel scared? Because the last time these two countries got together they almost destroyed Europe, so who knows if this is the end for all of us now! Germany and Italy! Ludwig and Feliciano!”

Goddammit, they had no time.

Whistles and applauses already rung for them, and they even had people pushing them to the front with the karaoke machine and microphones. Ludwig shakily held his and he tried to ignore the millions of eyes landing on him. He wanted to hide, under the confidence Feliciano shone in, telling the song to Gael for him to find, smiling and…wait…was he…shaking too? Pass the smile, the glow in his eyes…there were shadows that trembled. He was nervous…way more nervous than he himself. How could he mask this so well? Ever so charming and ready.

They managed to find Gilbert's eyes in the mass, giving them a thumbs up and a holler of encouragement.

The song began.

“Holding out for everything that I've missed,
The pull is strong, surrendering into it.”

And of course Feliciano started as gorgeous and captivating despite.

Ludwig sighed, recalled his words of practice and somehow managed to go on.

“Reaching out and aiming true,
To be with you is my only desire,
You're everything I miss.”

There was…silence from the crowd, impression…even from Feliciano…Ludwig sounded much nicer than they had anticipated. Together they went on, beginning to smile.

“Feeling hollow again,
To weak to pretend,
But I know I'm still breathing,
As I brace for the fall,
To face anymore,
I still need you to break in.”

And their confidence in each other grew along, until they could bring it high to an impressed crowd.

“I need a night, need a night of whispers,
Come lay me down,
For the peace I'm missing,
Can you save me,
From tonight, from a night of distance,
Come lay me down,
I need a night of whispers.”

Their eyes, their arms practically danced if even the distance they kept.

Feliciano continued as angelic.

“Come lay me down,
Come lay me down.”

And Ludwig took, “You shine a light through every inch of me.”

Feliciano went on, “Cause in the dark the fear is my symphony.”

And together, smiling, focused on their world, raise and forget the eyes.

“Feeling hollow again,
To weak to pretend,
But I know I'm still breathing,
As I brace for the fall,
To face anymore,
I still need you to break in.”

Facing the crowd as powerful.

“I need a night, need a night of whispers,
Come lay me down,
For the peace I'm missing,
Can you save me,
From tonight, from a night of distance,
Come lay me down,
I need a night of whispers,
Come lay me down.”

Feliciano, almost with tears in his eyes, got himself ready to open his mouth and begin that bridge Ludwig was too fearful to do…but then,

“From tonight,
From tonight,
I'll never leave you again,
I'm living again.”

Feliciano turned, widened to Ludwig, who sang, calling a silence that only wanted to listen, like an army waiting for a general’s command. He smiled and almost wanted to cry from the relief.

Oh how wonderful, how magical, how…Ludwig was…oh, he was beautiful.

“From tonight,
From tonight,
I'll never leave you again,
I'm living again.”

Their eyes were in a lock that slowly brought them closer, a reach of hands that they went to, grasping and dear. Somehow the crowds added in giving them a loving moment, singing along. Feliciano let Ludwig lay their heads together.

“From tonight,
From tonight,
I'll never leave you again,
I'm living again.”

The closeness, the union, the deepening in the color of their eyes, made Felicaino more passionate in his words, shouting to a world that was there in the grasp of his hands.

“Through chaos and calm,”

“From tonight,
From tonight,”

“When I come undone,”

“I’ll never leave you again,”

“I’m living again,”

“You lay in my heart.”

And for the first time both had realized how much they wanted to kiss each other, wanting their lips, their all, their everything. And it hurt, it stung, it practically felt like a stab when they had to move away from that sudden desire they both felt to finish and sing along with the crowd.

“I need a night, need a night of whispers,
Come lay me down,
For the peace I'm missing,
Can you save me,
From tonight, from a night of distance,
Come lay me down,
I need a night of whispers,
Come lay me down,
Come lay me down.”

And for some reason, as an ending, Feliciano splashed right into the big pool, earning louder cheers, whistles and applauses…also a share for Ludwig, who blushed and trembled realizing what he had just done…quite amazingly.

“That was one of the most beautiful things I’ve seen…which means the absolute last place! Come on, we’re trying to be bad here! Goddammit these guys bringing a whole academy award winning number!”

Ludwig laughed as he helped Feliciano get out of the pool, laughing as well and somehow…shy with how he smiled and moved with Ludwig. Sadiq and Yekaterina came offering them towels and even new clothes for Feliciano…all the while both sharing glances that perhaps…it was time.

“Okay, we’re still missing about four people to go and then- huh?” Yekaterina motioned for the microphone and Gael offered, not wanting to go against the host of course.

“I hope we’re having a good time.” As an answer they all shouted and hollered. Yekaterina giggled before continuing, “that’s great! But now…there’s…something I must announce to all of you…it’s…actually the reason for the party…”

Worried glances were exchanged, yet all were attentive. Sadiq came and held dearly to his wife’s hand, the perfect assurance for Yekaerina to take a deep breath and say it.

“I’m pregnant.”

Gasps and lost breaths, widened happiness, claps, and of course Yekaterina was surrounded instantly with congratulations, questions, concerns, and offers to help. Sadiq had to come between to make sure his wife was comfortable. Feliciano, despite the surprise and wanting to wish his own words, decided it was best to leave her be. He would later have his chance. He settled next to Ludwig on the same couch, watching the missing karaoke singers play before it was time for Gael to announce the winner. Ludwig rolled his eyes when they announced Gilbert. The award was the very microphone they had used, apparently too misused for Gael to keep using, yet for Gilbert it was treasure enough. He had risen it high and many raised along with him in celebration. In Yekaterina’s, as well as the future baby’s honor, Gilbert decided for another round of drinks at a nearby bar, knowing that the party was coming to an end and that the cleanup would start. Ludwig let him…he somehow always managed to come back home despite how intoxicated…he just had to be there to help with the hangover in the morning.

With a good portion of the crowd gone, there was this blissful silence left behind, only quiet chatter continuing and Sadiq putting on some relaxing music for them to fall at more ease. Ludwig and Feliciano could actually breathe and settle better after the performance they had given.

“We did really good,” Feliciano finally worded.

“We did,” Ludwig had to agree.

“You actually have a really nice voice.”

“I didn’t even know. I think it had to do a lot with how you prepared me last minute.”

“Yay!” Feliciano celebrated before he settled more in his seat, looking drained and ready to fall asleep. He sighed though, knowing there was something he had to address. “Can we…talk about how you know about my singing channel?”

Ludwig knew this was bound to come. “Uh…Gilbert told me you had instagram and I was looking for you to add…I happened to find it on my search,” he lied…he wasn’t ready to tell him the truth.

Feliciano nodded and didn’t seem to mind anymore, not as hurtful as before.

“Is…there a problem with that?”

It was like Feliciano had been shaken awake. “Oh…no! I just kind of safeguard it from my friends. I’ve never had someone so close to me know about it.”

“You keep it hidden? But why? There’s nothing embarrassing about it. I mean what I said before, you sing like an angel…I would assume you would be more proud to show it.”

“Mhm, but well one thing is…if you know about my channel…then you know about…”

Oh…right…if you know about it…you usually somehow found his…onlyfans. Ludwig froze not knowing how to continue.

“Do you um…do you know about it?” Feliciano gazed at Ludwig with a hint of a blush.

Ludwig sighed, “Feliciano…I’ll just tell you that…no matter what there is online about you…it doesn’t change how I feel about you…you’re still a dear friend to me.” And Feliciano breathed with relief…going as far as to even lay his head on Ludwig’s shoulder, who stiffened at first…but when he noticed the deep ease Feliciano was in, his beauty, his softness, he smiled and joined him…even letting his head fall on his.

“I’m glad, and ah, also…I’m just…terrified of performing in crowds.”

Ludwig’s eyes widened in shock, “now that, that I can’t believe.”

Feliciano chuckled, “I really am…I actually try to avoid it at all cost…another reason I don’t go sharing my channel around.”

“But it’s not like you sing badly! You’re so confident! How could you be so scared?”

Feliciano shrugged, “I just am…I think it has to do with coming from such a small village…never got used to performing in large crowds…and then there’s judgement.”

“Judgement?”

“I’m a bisexual man from an extremely catholic village.”

“Ah yes…I understand that… being a gay man from an extremely catholic village also.”

Feliciano chuckled, bringing himself closer to Ludwig…almost dozing even.

“Then why…why did you do this now? Sing with me in front of all these people.”

“They would have tried to force you to do it alone…and you seemed so scared…I wanted to help you…and I wanted you to have fun. And you know…when I sang with you…it was so nice, I was so happy…I didn’t think about the eyes, or what people would think, or what they could do to me…I just wanted to sing with you and… I didn’t feel scared anymore.” He smiled so deeply and Ludwig felt so full.

“Sadly, I don’t think I’ll do something like that again.”

Felicaino laughed, “we’ll see.”

They relished in the silence that came, one so fulfilling that Ludwig could have happily joined Feliciano on a nap, but he felt every single one of his movements so close, especially how he suddenly looked up to him. “Hey…you're…my best friend now and since you know about my music channel, can I tell you something that I've been wanting to talk about to someone for a while.”

“Go on.”

“So, there's this person who…sends me poems from time to time.” Ludwig told himself to keep from showing a large expression. “You must have seen some of the songs I made from what they write. I…don't know anything about the person, only the username they have. Julius Roma.”

Breathe easy, don't act anything. “Wha-what-why-uh…what about them?”

Feliciano sighed, dreamily. “I think I'm in love with them.”

Ludwig had to hold himself to the couch to not scream. And yet he was a stuttering mess, trying to gather his words and the rhythm of his breaths. “A-aren't you…with-with Keron?”

“And?”

“And uh…aren't you supposed to be in love with him?” It was such a weak thing to ask in his disarray.

“I already told you I don't love Keron.”

“But…to be in love with someone…you don't really know?” …that he knew.

“So? They write so beautifully and every single time they write I'm filled with so much inspiration and well…I just want to sing. I get so excited, so happy, I can stare at their words for hours wondering what kind of person they could be. Is it a man? Is he handsome? Does he carry himself like his words? Where is he from? Is he here in Berlin?”

Oh yes he is…right next to you even…but Ludwig kept that to himself, still trying hard to keep from shaking.

“I guess I am…but I won't really know until I meet them in person.”

“Uh…you think you will?”

“I really hope so…I dream of it! I hope I can really find a way to talk to them more, send a sign I want to meet…”

And for a moment, Ludwig wondered if he could give it all up, say it, right there and not worry over how he'll be devastated that it was just…plain old him. He looked…definitely a person who was in the wonders of love, surely imagining a king or prince of some sort…but he was just…some farmer from Bavaria. He would not live up to the image he had…no…he couldn't break his wonder, his ideal. With tears that threatened to release, he had to breathe, suck it in, and remain oblivious. “Feliciano, for a happily ever after I want for you…I really hope you get to one day.”

And that hopeful and believing smile almost made him cave.

He had offered to take him home, but Feliciano insisted not to…worried over what Keron would do to Ludwig appearing with him on his doorstep.

With some leftovers, he arrived at his brother's empty apartment, and it would surely be so until maybe four in the morning…if Gilbert got bored which didn't seem likely. He put the food in the fridge, had a glass of water, washed himself, changed into his pajamas, went into his room…where he then proceeded to scream. When it got too loud, he did so unto his pillow, until everything was released, everything that wanted to be said, admitted and done.

Oh god, what was he to do with this? How was he supposed to act beside Feliciano from now on? Was he just supposed to hang out with him unknowing that he admitted that he's in love with the persona he made up to send him poetry? Should he really not tell him? Should they first deal with getting him to break up with Keron? What were even his own feelings? What did he want? Didn't he just do this to have his peaceful and quiet farm in Bayern? But now he wanted Feliciano- and ugh! Another fit of screams. Perhaps it was best he just went to bed and emptied his thoughts to nothing. He was now worried all this screaming could get Gilbert a noise complaint. Incredible…him, giving Gilbert a noise complaint notice…this city was driving him insane. Sleep…he needed to sleep and hopefully the answers would come.

Chapter Text

Potsdamer Platz…one of those really touristy places he had done well to avoid as per Gilbert's suggestion. But for some reason, said brother, decided to drag him here today, meaning to go to a Mercedes-Benz dealer shop. He needed to get some information for some part on his motorcycle that apparently only these people knew and he was determined to get it at any cost. It was very likely that he was doing something illegal there and it was best he stayed outside as he said. Luckily it was warm and he busied himself texting Feliciano. He was looking at yet another video someone had sent from their karaoke performance. It was surreal…seeing himself sing like that, something beautiful that someone deemed to record and remember well.

‘I like this one! The lights over us look so nice!’ Feliciano had texted with it and indeed…it gave it such a romantic light.

He sighed, looking back to see his brother still heavily discussing something with two others. He was about to ask Feliciano if he maybe wanted to get some coffee after the next recital and maybe they could properly discuss what they wanted to do with their hair for the premier night, when he caught someone from the corner of his eyes. Huh? They seemed familiar, who- it was Keron. He dashed inside the dealer shop and hid underneath a counter, clearly interrupting the conversation his brother was having.

“Uh…could you excuse him? In fact, let's just ignore him!” Gilbert turned them away so he could continue his discussion.

Now, did Keron notice him?

He was standing in front of one of the nearby buildings, gazing about, checking his phone from time to time. He wouldn't have remained so if he had seen Ludwig…so he was in the clear. What was he doing here though? Job related? No, Feliciano had once mentioned where he worked and they were nowhere near it. Perhaps a date with Feliciano? His phone vibrated that moment, a message saying that he was bored with nothing to do, debating if to just sit and watch something on Netflix. Okay…no. So what- he got his answer quickly.

A woman came, lips dashed in heavy red, smiling large, heals quickened to him, an embrace, a kiss of lips.

Oh…oh…oh…the dirtbag! The bastard! The idiot! The ass! Ludwig was widened…not really in shock, he knew Keron was a bitch capable of this, yet to see it, with a woman dressed in such a tacky dress, shoes and purse, a face caked and not nearly as divine as the man he had waiting at home.

They chatted and then turned, surely meaning to go to the near mall, Keron having a tight grasp of her waist.

“Hey! You’re embarrassing me here! Didn’t I tell you to-”

“Look here!” Ludwig instantly demanded, taking Gilbert’s head in the direction the couple was going.

It took him a while, but once he caught and made the connection, he had the same widened and piercing shock. “Holy shit! I knew he was capable of being that much trash.”

“We need to follow them.”

“What?”

“I need to take a picture, I need to find out more about this.” Ludwig was already preparing his phone, standing and beginning to make way.

“Are you serious? Bro, you do know he will actually try to murder us if he finds us spying on him like that.”

“We'll sneak as best as we can. Come on, didn't you say you would do anything to help Feliciano out of this relationship?”

That he did, the weight of what that meant he had to show and what he had to do suddenly clear…and it probably meant dying at Keron's hands. He sighed, “fine.” He still had his phone ready to call Francis and Antonio in the case of an emergency.

They began the trailing, doing well to always stay a large distance behind, mending in with crowds or other objects that came they could hide behind. The couple visited many stores, Keron carrying all kinds of bags from very expensive brands. It seemed neverending, the brothers groaning each time they went into a new store.

“Is he doing that kind of stuff with Feliciano?” At some point Ludwig had asked in a whisper.

“At art stores, maybe, but not like this. He's using way more money than what he usually does with Feli.”

Ludwig did well to take pictures of all the times they bought, the branded bags, their holds, kisses, even inappropriate grabbing.

“You have more than enough proof! Come! Let's just show Feliciano and get this over with.”

“Wait, no!”

“No? What else do you want to see? All this was disgusting enough.”

“I need to find out more. It's not just trying to help Feliciano but just…really destroying this guy for what he did to him. I need to hear them talk to each other.”

“That's dangerous.”

“But we might find out something important.”

“Come on then, they're leaving the mall now,” Gilbert hurried them.

They didn't have to go far, there was a restaurant in the very square they went into, exclusive, expensive and tight…there was no way the both of them could easily go in. Ludwig groaned but Gilbert went through his phone. Gilbert sighed as he began a call.

“Who are you calling?”

“Someone I know who works here.” It was a moment and someone had answered, surely politely and calm, yet Gilbert…”Hey, bitch! Could you let us in? We're on a stealth mission trying to expose an asshole. It's for the sake of freeing Feliciano from his hell.” Almost instantly a door further down opened, and Ludwig recognized Berwald, dressed in one of the pristine outfits of the waiters there. He motioned for them to enter through, something that Ludwig was hesitant about, but Gilbert insisted…surely used to this kind of thing.

“I can let you in for half an hour, then our manager is here. Then you definitely need to get out. We have extra uniforms here if you need, but otherwise, my recommendation is always staying by the kitchen or behind the walls.” He did the favor of leading them through the back hall, lockers and supply closets, before he had to leave them by the kitchen doors, having to attend to different customers, leaving the brothers to their misfortunes and hoping they left when it was time.

They easily spotted the couple, in a dark corner luckily right behind a wall that they could use…sadly there was a whole open area that they had to traverse.

“Ludwig…this is really risky,” Gilbert already noticed.

“How do we make it over there without getting their attention?” Ludwig was sure there would be something, attentive to how everything moved in the restaurant to get an idea. There weren’t that many people eating, and yet there was constant movement from the waiters, almost like a choreographed danced that did well to have an offering of something exquisite at all times to all that were present. Ludwig found it quite wonderful, but the customers didn't really care, too intertwined in their own conversations. Keron and his…floozy were no exception. As a waiter passed by holding a tray of expensive wines, Ludwig already started his daring venture, just going by the side until he could hide behind some vased plant. Gilbert wanted to shout, nag him on the terribleness of it all, but he couldn't attract attention, having no choice but to settle more behind the wall. Gilbert swore he would faint, watching as Ludwig continued, moving between waiters and random items, bringing him ever closer until he was actually kneeling down on the wall right next to them. Gilbert bit his fingers and for once looked high above trying to find some sort of angel that could protect his little brother.

“-and it's been months! I don't know if I can go on without you like this.”

“At least you're in Bali and not somewhere as decrapetit as Berlin.”

“Why did you even get that apartment here if you hate it so much?”

“Lots of meetings here. Was getting kind of tired of the hotel stays.”

They went on talking about resorts and vacations, Ludwig finding it boring, but he was determined, a quick look to his brother who was giving him a thumbs up as a reminder they still had time and Ludwig intended to use it.

Minutes passed on with nothing of value, Ludwig sighing and wondering if it was truly worth doing all of this for them to just discuss train strikes in Germany.

“Is that boy still with you? Vincenzo's kid.”

“Feliciano?”

“Yeah, the one with the girly face and the bimbo brain.”

Ludwig was close to shouting at her.

“Yeah, I thought I told you he's staying at my apartment here.”

“When are you finally going to kick him out?”

“Not yet.” Nonchalant and empty, no care at all. It was around here Ludwig started recording from his phone. “Vincenzo's oldest kid is back in San Quirico. He got some new lawyers for his mother and they just found some new documents from Augusto. He's also working with some activist groups and they might get Feliciano to come back to Italy soon and testify. It's really going against Vincenzo right now.”

“Especially if Feliciano talks.”

“Exactly. I'm waiting for Vincenzo to find some new clauses before I get my part of the plan going.”

“The Valenti are a pain in the ass but their farm is magnificent. Ah, I can't wait for it to be ours. First thing I'll get rid of are all the stinking animals though. Really ruins the atmosphere.”

Ludwig couldn't help but think about how Feliciano cared so much about them, the memories with his grandfather and how he intended to keep them in the case his mother stayed with the farm.

He angered and hated this woman the more.

“We still have to wait, sadly.”

“It's going be a year soon!”

“We can wait some three more months.”

“And then will you expose Feliciano's whore ass and leave him with nothing.”

“Definitely,” said with a prideful smile.

Ludwig wanted to strangle him.

It was then that he finally looked up to Gilbert, insisting that he left. Ludwig quickly checked his phone and realized they had two minutes left. He saw Berwald, attending to a table, sparing a quick glance to Ludwig signaling to start getting out. Lucky for him, a lot of waiters were passing by, including one to Keron’s table, coming to take dessert orders to keep their gazes as Ludwig swiftly got to Gilbert and they hurried out.

Like runaway criminals they rushed back to Gilbert's apartment, breathing hard, wanting to act instantly, but also Ludwig had to show Gilbert all the proof he got.

“What did they mean by exposing Feliciano?” Ludwig questioned.

“His onlyfans,” Gilbert knew.

“What could it possibly mean for the farm-”

“Conservative and religious Italian village, Ludwig! That will be the last nail in the coffin! If Keron reveals his onlyfans to the lawyers, it will be enough for them to bend it as some sort of neglect from Feliciano’s mother. Keron is going to use his entire relationship with him as bait. Feliciano’s dad will win the case and there goes the farm and Feliciano’s family will basically be homeless, not to mention what will happen to Feliciano. This whole thing is one of the many reasons Feliciano doesn’t go around sharing his socials.”

“Why would Keron do this to help his father?” Ludwig paced angrily.

“Vincenzo doesn't really care about the farm! He just wants to get back at Renata and get rid of it. He's going to sell it to Keron for some cheap price and then turn it into some influencer hell!” Gilbert deplored it all, shown in his intensified anger about it all. “But we can stop this! We have the pictures, we have the recordings! You have to call Feliciano this instant and tell him about all of it! We can save them yet!”

Ludwig was glad to, excited, already gathering and even getting Feliciano's contact…but then suddenly froze when he remembered-

“they might get Feliciano to come back to Italy soon and testify. It's really going against Vincenzo right now.”

“Especially if Feliciano talks.”

Then…his own conversation with Feliciano, “I wish…I wish things could be different, but…I feel like I have to stay…there's…things I have to do.”

He lowered his phone, locking it even, no action, grimacing and breathing out his distaste, but knowing this was what he had to do.

“Uh…did you already send him everything?”

“No…”

“No?! What do you mean no? We’re trying to save his farm and get him away from Keron! We finally have something major that could get us to do just that and now you’re saying no!” Of course Gilbert would be furious.

“I…think there’s more to this.”

“What do you mean?” Gilbert was getting exasperated.

“Feliciano is not as idiotic as people assume he is! I think he has something planned for himself.”

“He would have told us!”

“We probably would have compromised the way he wants it to work.”

“So all we just did was for nothing?”

“No, it will be useful! We will save everything well and give it to Feliciano when it’s time.”

“You’re just going to blindly believe he will have some sort of counter elaborate plan.”

“Yes, yes, I’m certain.”

“Why are you so confident about it? All of this for him, for what?”

“Because I love him!” It was like a crashing, an explosion of realization that brought a sudden eerie silence to the flat. “I love him…oh god I love him, ah fuck I love him, holy shit I love him. Ah fuck, oh god, oh shit, fuck!” The room seemed to spin, the floor suddenly uneven, he was sure a headache was coming and he took a heavy grasp to his head to try and balance himself.

He loved him, he adored him, oh so much and the knowing only made the room spin much faster.

“I love him, oh no, I love him,” he yet repeated as he started a pace.

All of his feelings, all the devotion, why he wanted him to smile, his shine, why he found him the most adoring person, the wanting to always be with him, his voice, his kindness…it was all because he was in love. He had denied it so long, thought it a crush, a silly infatuation, a weird way to show his support…but now he knew it was love…it was love!

“Ah fuck, I love him, shit! Aahh!” And he proceeded to march straight to his room, the last sound that of the crash of his door…and then the scream of frustration…then another scream hidden in the comforts of a pillow. And then…an uncomfortable silence as Gilbert stood there, blinking, shocked and trying to figure out what he just heard and saw.

“Well…fuck…” was the only thing he could really say.

Despite how intense the realization had been, Ludwig had to wake up, had to get ready and make his way to the theater even with the exhaustion on his face and the knowing…he had to meet Feliciano and pretend he hadn't found out he was deeply in love with him. He breathed in and out and constantly told himself that he could do it…he was already hiding he was Julius Roma from him…hiding that he was in love as well shouldn't be a big deal. They were friends, good friends…best friends! He could continue to be that for him.

He could hear the music that was being played loudly once he reached the main doors. He recognized Natalya's voice, as well as the lyrics to the last song…it wasn't sounding well at all, and when he opened the door…it was worse.

Natalya had a distinct voice that could be good, but for this song, now matter how they tried to change it to make it performable for her, it just didn't hit as they wanted. Ludwig sighed, meeting their frustrations.

“I’m going to try another key this time, and maybe if we take out those extra electric drums from the plan,” Tulio, who played, suggested to Francis, who laid dramatically over the piano, exhausted and not at all his usual flare.

“Whatever,” he waved his hand uncaringly.

Tomorrow would be June…marking well that now they had one month left for the premier night. A lot of things were falling wonderfully into place, a good percentage of the show done. They were rehearsing more concrete things with most of everything they would need to perform officially. Yes, there were some technicalities missing, some things that still needed to be put to order, hell Ludwig was still missing a song, reminded with a glare Liên sent his way. Yet many were stressed and aggravated, and now Ludwig realized that perhaps coming here to try and find the inspirations for the words missing was the wrong idea. But…Feliciano was here, sitting by his own little desk watching the latest failed performance. He was attentive, the pen he had tapping on his chin…he hadn’t even noticed Ludwig had arrived. Ludwig now found it preferable, since he could use the time to just stare at him…beautiful, gorgeous, a wonder…how had he managed to talk to him so controlled the last few times was beyond him. Now…he couldn’t even gather the courage to greet him. He heaved, missed steps and was surely looking like a fool. Feliciano then noticed his presence, turning to him, smiling, and Ludwig had to hold himself from just screaming.

“He-he-hey, ah, hi!” He hoped one of the top stage lights would fall on his head.

Feliciano laughed, “are you okay? Did Gilbert give you bad beer to drink this morning?”

“No-no, I’m just…nervous.”

“About what?”

Acting normal around you now that I know I love you.

“There’s one song I haven’t done the lyrics for and…I have no idea what to do,” he sighed as he took the chair next to him, slowly letting himself fall at ease. Feliciano was a good friend, concerned, kind…he shouldn’t fret, he should just put it into his head that he just had to continue to act the way he always has. He can do this.

Feliciano hummed, “for what scene is it?”

“Lorenz has to convince her that they should return him to earth…it would be the first of the last four songs.”

“Hm,” Feliciano wondered intensely on it, eyes going round looking for inspiration.

“You…don’t have to do anything for me, you know?”

“Ludwig, I shall always help you! I shall think and see if maybe I can get you to write some lyrics!” He was determined.

It was just as there was another slam at the piano. “You know what, I’m done!” Natalya shouted.

“No we are not! You come back here and we do not leave until we rehearse this perfectly!” Francis shouted and scolded at her as she hurried and got her things, beginning an exit from the stage.

“We've tried twenty-eight times! Twenty-eight! I've had enough of you two! Do it like this, do it like that, what if we add this, what if we take out that! Enough! It's a shitty finale song and it's never going to work. If I were you, I would be thinking about taking it out completely!” She slammed the door on her way out, almost shaking the theater in her force. Francis made an audible groan in the silence that came afterwards.

“Francis…um…what’s not working is uh…”

“Natalya, I know. She doesn’t fit the song at all.”

“What if we change the song completely? She did sing Hunting Shadows perfectly.”

“No! This is the grand finale! The song is perfect! The choreography, the staging, the lighting, even the pyrotechnique has all aligned to the dream I have wanted it to become…but Natalya…” he slumped down, that dream suddenly a husk.

“We really…can’t get anyone else? Even if just for the finale?”

“Not this short notice. Also if we lose Natalya, we lose Ivan, and I really cannot have that.”

Tulio sighed, “then we have no choice but to keep tweeking until we find something that works.”

Francis groaned and was readying to cry out, “I will drown my misery in alcohol, in men, in women…I need to go to the club!” With that decree he headed out, Tulio organizing some last things by the piano before leaving as well.

Feliciano gasped, “that’s it! We need to go to the club!”

“I don’t know what kind of image you have of me, but I can assure you I do not like drowning my sorrows with alcohol and men…less with women.”

“We don’t have to drown in any of that!” Feliciano rolled his eyes, “but we can just go to have a good time! Get our heads working and then maybe you can get the song!”

“Does it really have to be a club?” Ludwig was already dreading it.

“I miss going out to dance to be honest. Besides, clubbing is what Berlin is known for. Have you been here if you haven’t gone to one?”

“I would be perfectly content.”

“Come on! You have to give it a try! If you want I can tell Gilbert and he can tell a bunch of people! We’ll be with people we know and it would be much more comfortable.” There he went, holding his arm and looking up to him with that shine and he was easily defeated.

“Fine…just text me the details and I’ll…mentally prepare myself for that.”

“You got it!”

“Ludwig! Feliciano!” Suddenly Erszèbet exploded in, massive when the stage had begun to darken and people were slowly heading out. “Have you realized we have missing songs?” She shouted at them.

“No, we only have one song missing, and I came here to work exactly on that.”

“All I see you doing is flirting with Feliciano.”

Both reddened in shock and stuttered.

“No-No, no we aren't!” Ludwig defended.

“Ye-yeah, yeah! We're just talking!” Feliciano added.

“Well, if you could get your heads out of each other's asses, you'd realized that there are in fact three songs and stage settings missing.” She raised up the tablet with the detailed official plan. She let them scroll through the plan and indeed…she was right…there were three whole scenes missing. Ludwig had completely forgotten that in the story the comet denies Lorenz's first request to go back to Earth, he then proceeds to make an insurrection and even tries to get out of the comet himself. He slapped his own head, realizing that he had been so distracted, the kindergarten, his outings through the city and…his love for Feliciano.

“I'll…get to work on them immediately.”

“You better! And I want you in separate areas! You both get easily distracted when you're with each other.”

“No we don't! We actually help each other a lot and try-”

“Feliciano, it's fine. This time, let's just listen to Erszèbet and try to get done as much as we can.” He did admire how quick Feliciano was to defend them. Feliciano deflated though, clearly annoyed and being distasteful of the idea.

Ludwig got his things and began to follow Erszèbet to surely one of the backrooms. “Hey, I can meet up with you heading out,” he suggested.

“No…I have to stay late anyways, they’re expecting some technical reports from some of my stage commands.”

“Oh…then, uh…I’ll see you another time.”

“Yeah…I’ll text you if anything.”

They turned and separated downcasted and saddened, as if they were saying goodbye for good, not mere hours.

In the two hours Ludwig was stuck back there, he managed to write and officiate two songs…neither of them the one that he had been trying to think about at the beginning…he still didn’t have the first of the four final songs. Erszèbet let him go, since at least they had two songs and it would surely be some kind of abuse if she forced him to stay longer.

It was late then when Ludwig was making his way out, no one walking about the halls, silent and desolate. Ludwig nevertheless took his route to the stage, hoping that maybe Feliciano was still there…to do what, he didn’t know, he just…wanted to see him. Ah, there he was…just as lonesome as he had left him. He was surely signing some last approvals from the technical department, many from the way he was somewhat exasperated as he turned the pages. Should he let him finish? Or should he use this as a chance for time with him? Come in and continue an evening together. When he was about to make his steps forward, Feliciano suddenly stopped, looking up, his eyes landing on the piano that still stood singularly on the stage. He had an idea, an inspiration grand, Ludwig had begun to tell when Feliciano had it shining in his eyes. He looked around, making sure no one was around…and Ludwig decided to keep his hide behind the wall. He was curious about what he wanted to do.

Feliciano went to the piano, going through the papers, notebooks and pamphlets that were there, all surely to do with the finale of the show, Ludwig’s song, Komet. Between them Ludwig could recognize the paper he had given Francis when he had officiated its finish. It was that very one Feliciano took, reading through, placing it on a center, to the side of the original composing Rodrich had made, without any of these last tweaks meant to accommodate Natalya. He took his seat, making himself comfortable, eager, his fingers moving on a test against the keys before he deemed to start the melody. It was such a gentle beginning, Feliciano bringing it in well along with hums.

“Ich hör die Möwen singt am Hafen,
Das letzte Lied zum Rausschmiss,
Zähl schon lang nicht mehr die Jahre,
Die ich im dichten Rauch sitz,”

Of course…as enchanting and gorgeous as he always made anything sound, already a perfection set at the first keys and words which had taken Tulio, Francis and Natalya several instead.

“Und wenn ich geh, dann so, wie ich gekommen bin,
Wie ein Komet, der zweimal einschlägt,
Vielleicht tut es weh, doch will auf Nummer sicher geh,
Dass ich für immer leb, lass uns nochmal aufdrehen,
Lass uns nochmal aufdrehen,”

He gave it his all as if he was already performing it in front of an awaiting crowd, moving and swaying with such a passion that it almost had Ludwig revealing himself to move along himself to the words. He had to remember that he wrote this song as he and Gilbert were flute playing. Muses that have practically handed him this very piece. He realized then…no other could sing this song but Gilbert and Feliciano. He sighed knowing that he made quite a dilemma for the scene in the play and the people that were actually meant to play these characters…perhaps they would have to settle with whatever mediocre end that could satisfy enough.

“Lass uns nochmal aufdrehen, yeah.” And he ended it with a pleased smile, prideful, content and still in the magic the song had brought him.

Ludwig sighed, a pity…this song, in Feliciano's hand…will be the masterpiece Francis had wanted.

As the last key drifted away, Feliciano still enjoyed in the silence, letting his fingers trace over the keyboards as he breathed and relaxed. His watch vibrated, a message on his phone that made him groan and roll his eyes…Keron. He was covered in a sudden coat of anger, picking his things in a hastened rush, his steps much more forceful than usual. It was best Ludwig left himself before he realized he had seen his little concert…right now it didn't seem like he would react too well.

Chapter Text

As the days passed, with the opening night coming ever closer, Yekaterina to go on maternity leave and Gilbert himself near to finishing the motorcycle, despite the start of summer, there was a lot of frustration and stress. Ludwig had seen his fair share of item throwing and breakdowns. When Feliciano made the group event to visit the Lido club near Görlitzer Park, Ludwig had felt relieved from it since a lot of them found it the time to unwind. Ludwig didn't understand how heavy drinking, loud music, provocative dancing and flashing lights was that…but if it helped the heavy air of anxiety…then so be it.

“Can I still protest to go?” He had told Feliciano the day before. He just had his flute lesson with Gilbert and had no intention of getting back to Keron. As soon as they were done, he went straight to Ludwig’s room and just…sat on his bed as if it was his. Gilbert had wiggled his eyebrows at a madly blushing Ludwig, deciding to leave them alone and head over to get some groceries for the evening. They simply chatted, sometimes having moments of silence as Feliciano just calmly scrolled on his phone, ever making himself comfortable in the bed by wrapping himself around pillows and blankets. Ludwig decided he would hold from changing the sheets that week at least.

“Come on, Ludwig! We’re going to have fun. I prepared it especially with you in mind!”

He had him in his mind, he grinned to himself, trying to hide it as he maintained his gaze on his laptop. He tried what he could to just check on some things Astrid sent regarding his farm…yet the side of his eyes always wandered to him…and he wanted to smile, because just this simplicity was part of what he had made fantasies of.

“So many people already accepted and I chose a small place, with no weird sex stuff or drugs…just dancing and nice drinks!” He moved his head to the side, his curls moving with him, so enchanting and Ludwig remained with a hand on his mouth to hide how he kept grinning. “I think you're going to enjoy it.”

“I think I'm going to stay in the same corner the entire night.”

“No, I won't let you! Maybe you’ll find a very pretty guy to dance with.”

Ludwig only hummed, finding that unlikely. He sighed, “I'll give it a chance…just don't expect I'll have one of the best nights of my life or something like that.”

Feliciano sighed, but for now it was enough.

Ludwig admitted that it was impressive how one of the old buildings in the area could hide such a large club in its ground floor. When Feliciano had said a large group of their friends were coming, he didn’t expect…practically all of them, including Gilbert. They had met in front of the building and like a swarm made their way inside. Feliciano gave some sort of ticket and instantly they could go in and…do what they wanted. What was an old theater, was one of the largest dancefloors, playing a mix of songs that didn’t settle on just one genre. He was kind of relieved it was not only techno. There was another dance floor playing old classics, but it was apparently the one where you could smoke in and Ludwig refused it. Some were in a corner in loud chatter, others quickly went to the dancing, Feliciano included, moving along to Halo by Lum!x, all jumping smiles. Sure, many joined him and seemed to go in celebration, but Feliciano shone his own star in the crowds and Ludwig had sighed knowing he had it bad. Despite the insistence, he stayed by a table with a clear view to the dancing commotion. He was content with his beer, after a number of sips, denying anyone who came near hoping to coax him to join. Nope, no, never going to happen. How his brother could be in this making an utter fool of himself with his horrible moves and not feel an ounce of shame…actually that was very Gilbert of him, Ludwig should just give up trying to understand it. From time to time his eyes would go back to Feliciano, still as energetic as the very first song, always sending a smile, another wave of hands calling him to come. No, no…no. He sighed and settled for the twentieth time on his drink, twisting it on the table and hoping for something that could perhaps give him bravery.

“Hey, having fun?” Antonio greeted along with Erszèbet, both with their own drinks and taking their seats at the table.

“Uh…it’s been okay.”

Erszèbet sighed, “are you really not gonna do anything else but sit here all night?”

“Yep,” Ludwig sounded proud about it, Erszèbet scoffed.

“Feliciano organized all of this so you could have a good time.”

Feliciano turned to him once again, another call…Ludwig gave him another refusal. Ludwig then noticed how Feliciano got more and more disappointed with each one, his rhythm deflating and not the same bounce.

“He’s getting really sad,” Antonio noticed as well and worded it.

“Why don’t you go dance with him then?”

“Hey, this is my break! I’ve been shaking my ass this entire time,” Erszèbet defended.

“And I don’t feel right dancing without Lovi,” Antonio pouted.

“Why did you even come then?” Ludwig glared.

“Can’t I be with friends?” Antonio glared back.

“Uh oh,” Erszèbet noticed.

“What?” Both the men turned to her.

“Feliciano got a big bottle,” and she pointed to him in the multitude, between all the jumping bodies, taking a large swig of indeed…the very large bottle in his hand.

“Oh no, look what you did,” Antonio blamed.

“Yeah, you really fucked this up, Lud,” Erszèbet pointed out noncahantly as she took a sip from her own small bottle.

And now…the guilt came.

Indeed…Feliciano had gone through a lot to prepare him this outing. All their friends there, a comfortable atmosphere, drinks, good music and completely sane for Berlin, all while dealing with the onslaughts of Keron at home. It should have been enough for him to use its full extent, to dance along with the crowd…perhaps dance with him. Cake by the Ocean by DNCE played on and somehow, despite the continuing downage of the bottle, alcohol escaping and beginning to coat his tank top, Feliciano managed to dance in tune to the music…although Ludwig was noticing how he was beginning to spin and begin some languish movements that meant that he was slowly getting intoxicated.

“Um…shouldn’t someone stop him?” Ludwig said.

Both shrugged and didn’t seem to have any extent to do anything.

“Drinking is one of the things we're here for, Lud,” Erszèbet reminded.

“But…I don’t think Feliciano is doing it healthily.” He noticed by now he had drunk the entire thing.

“Then you do something about it,” Erszèbet practically dared him, but also gave him a stare of daggers, insisting indeed he acted finally.

Ludwig shook, he gripped his hands and considered for what both thought was a long time. He didn’t really force himself to stand until he noticed how some of the men and women began to stare at Feliciano with lustful sneers, closer and caging and Ludwig couldn’t just let him fall prey. If it wasn’t for the loud music, the screech Ludwig’s stool made would have resounded across the whole room. He didn’t bother about the stares, about those who smirked, the bodies that began to surround him as he dared to dive into its flood, how the music boomed or even the eyes of those who dared to come closer to him hoping for their own dance. Ludwig pushed them all aside. He had a clear target reigning in his vision, shining like a star, beautiful despite how lost he was in the drink, swaying still, unaware of his approach. What a moment to actually play an Italian song, Ma stasera by Marco Mengoni, one that Feliciano noticed enough to gasp and sway much more excitedly. He would have almost tripped on some spilled beer on the ground if it wasn’t for the sudden grasp on his waist, hoisting him up until he was before a familiar figure, resting on that comfortable chest that exuded a warmness that he wanted to remain in. Everything…was beginning to get blurry…it took a bit before he actually recognized that blue that outshone everything else.

“...Ludwig…” Feliciano breathed out in an allure.

“Are you all right?” He still asked, taking his arms in a sweet caress, trying to hold him in sense.

Feliciano nodded, “I am…I am now.”

The music played, those around them danced on, yet they stayed frozen in their own silent spot. They were nervous…looking at everything but themselves, knowing they would fall in some sort of trap if they stared into the enchant of their eyes.

“You…you didn't like this…did you?” Feliciano dared to ask, uneasiness, scared of what could be the answer.

“Feliciano…” he sighed, he brought him closer, meaning so he could hear him better…but how delightful his warmth, the form of his body, the sweet scent…it made him want to thread his hands all over him. “I’m not used to this kind of thing. I appreciate you tried to make it as comfortable as you could…but I prefer going through one of your exhibitions, bike rides, coffee after rehearsals…or even singing.” They both chuckled, daring a lead into one another.

“I just…really wanted to dance with you.”

“And you can now…we can…I can come to places like this as often as you want for you…but I just want to be with you.” They cradled, Feliciano now wrapping his arms around Ludwig’s neck, now landing on gazes, stars in his eyes and Ludwig was lost in their galaxy.

“You really would?”

“If that’s what you want.” And to prove so, he began to sway along with him, Feliciano letting them easily fall to the rhythm of the song. Feliciano chuckled more, getting louder as he let his head rest on his chest, pushing himself harder into him. Ludwig smiled and caressed at his back.

The swaying intensified to extends, to jumps, to arms in the air, spins and high laughs. Bad Habits by Ed Sheeran, Pretender by Steve Aoki, techno cover of a french waltz and then one from Beethoven, and Ludwig and Feliciano danced to it all as if it was a challenge that needed to be fulfilled. Ludwig had to admit…he was actually…enjoying himself now, laughing and just letting his body move along to the joy of being with Feliciano even if the crowd surrounding them, letting themselves the hold of hands, the long exchange of eyes with big smiles, closer, wraps of arms around them…all heating, the alcohol taking a peak.

Let Me Hold You by Cheat Codes began to play when Feliciano had a whole new smirk, his eyes like the calling of a siren. It reminded Ludwig of one of the many alluring and lustful looks he had on his onlyfans, the ones that had him up at night in pleasure, that had made him come undone and going back to constantly. This Feliciano he witnessed tended to only be present in his imaginations and dreams…and now he had it actually solely directed on him, closer, hands beginning a tighter caress and trace and Ludwig smiled along, daring fingertips under his tank top to feel a shapely soft skin and it only made Feliciano's smirk turn larger and bring himself closer. They leaned and took in their necks, wonderful scents that had them captivated, grasps that made them come closer until they came to the first grind of their hips. Feliciano had moaned out along with the blast of the song as Ludwig let his arms go down his thighs and grasp. Swaying, spins, but Ludwig always brought him back just as close, wrapping arms around his waist, even beginning to lay kisses on his neck. Feliciano smiled and let his hands caress at his jaw, hair, and made his own kisses on his neck. With Feliciano’s back facing him, they grinded along and didn’t bother about eyes or being so displayed when several others around them were in the same euphoria. Ludwig could grasp his waist and harden against him, and Feliciano moved back taking it all well. They didn’t know what other songs played afterwards, so lost in their union that it really didn’t matter anymore, they were moving to another melody that was only in their minds. As Ludwig drove his hand further up his back and Feliciano began kissing right next to his lips, a part of them wondered if this was right…if they should sneak into same dark corner to take their lips, remove their clothes and take a room to shout in their carnal union. No, no…Feliciano was drunk…why else would he be this close to the edge with him? This in bliss…yet languish. This…this beauty should stop. Oh yes, he would have loved to take his rear, bite his ownership, dive his tongue in his mouth and give him a night to actually be loved…but it wouldn’t be right when he was this inebriated. This was a delight…and part of Ludwig just wanted to continue this daydream, but he needed a break, an end…and it came with the sudden crashing of a bottle.

Despite how the music kept playing, there was a silence that elevated on their spot, all those around suddenly stopping to try and see where it had come from, some already leaving in fright, whispers of danger, others continued along with the music and then there was one guy trying to pick up the pieces of the bottle he had accidentally dropped. Ludwig sighed sense back to himself, looking down to Feliciano still in his hold, flushed, head surely spinning and lost.

“Uh…whose the Prime Minister of Italy right now?”

Ludwig raised an eyebrow, “isn't it Giorgia Meloni?”

“Grand melons?”

“No, Meloni.”

“I want some lemonade.”

“What does that-” No, no, no need to fight for sense in his state. “Feliciano, come, let’s go.”

“Go? Go where? Are we going to get more drinks?”

“Definitely not.” He brought him out of the dancefloor and unto the halls, the music dimmed, along with a good golden light, comfortable sofas, Ludwig managing to find a free one where he forced Feliciano into a seat.

“I want lemonade, Ludwig!” He demanded suddenly.

“Yeah, yeah, give me a second.” He went and instead got a bottle of water. Feliciano was still in his place when he returned, although slumped and spinning slightly. Ludwig offered the drink, which Feliciano went and took a swig of without even looking. After, he stared at the bottle in deep question. “This isn’t lemonade…or beer…or wine.”

“It’s water, and trust me, you’re going to appreciate it tomorrow morning.”

“Yes, captain,” Feliciano saluted and kept drinking the bottle.

Ludwig rolled his eyes before taking the spot next to him.

“How did I get here?”

“You took an S-bahn and a U-bahn I think.”

“Are you sure I didn’t take the B-Bahn either?”

“...there’s no such thing.”

“But how do I go back?”

“Same way you came.”

“Oh, okay, then I can do it! Ciao, Ludwig! I’ll see you tomorrow! Buon Natale!” He stood and was ready to make his exit…instead he tripped, and would have landed face first on the ground if it wasn’t for the hold Ludwig took of him.

“Yeah, no, you’re coming with me.”

“Are we going to get a goat?”

Ludwig took a deep and release of breath. “I’m taking you to Gilbert’s place. I’m sure he won’t mind you staying the night.” He would think about how exactly he would deal with him in the morning…but Feliciano was not at all adequate to be alone…or with Keron.

“Oh…I see what’s about to happen…” the alluring smirk he wore almost made Ludwig drop him in his red flourish. “Gilbert and I are going to steal a goat tomorrow!” That…that was a good save from giving him an erection.

“Come on, kumpel.”

“We can make goat cheese!”

“Sure we can.”

Despite Feliciano’s odd ramblings, he did well to stick to Ludwig, but the further they went, the more Feliciano’s ramblings became saddened ones. This was not at all how he expected to find out that Feliciano used to be in a football team when he was a teenager…but had to stop because the only coach willing to teach them in San Quirico left for one of the enemy towns.

“I was a god in the field, Ludwig! A god!” Feliciano groaned as they finally made their entrance to the darkened hall of Gilbert’s apartment.

“I can believe that.”

“But-but I wasn’t able to keep showing how good I could be! I enjoyed it so much and-and I-I’m still sad I had to stop. I want to play football again.”

“Feliciano, I’m sure we can arrange something.”

Feliciano would have gasped in happiness if he had the energy, but he was becoming more and more sluggish, making it easy for Ludwig to lay him down on the couch in the living room.

“Can I get a kiss if I win?”

“Sure, I’ll even give you some flowers and chocolate,” Ludwig chuckled as he helped to get his shoes off, putting a pillow under his head, taking a cover and laying it over Feliciano as perfectly tucked in as he could.

“I want…Schoko Bons…”

Ludwig smiled, moving Feliciano’s hair to the side and letting the caress drowse him more, eyes settling and breaths evening in that of sleep. Ludwig sighed…he himself was getting tired. He stood and got his phone to write Gilbert about this.

“Ludwig is going to get me chocolate,” Feliciano still went on in his dreams. “And a goat, and lemonade…he’s so nice…so nice…I should marry him.”

Ludwig smiled…telling himself not to imagine that hypothetical wedding. He was…drunk after all…he shouldn't take it all to heart. After that, he was silent in sleep, still with a beautiful light that Ludwig found it hard to move away from.

He went and got ready for bed, settling then in his own covers just as words began to practically rain down on him, all from memories of dances and a closeness of heaven, a song already titled, ‘Whatever He Wants’.

He awoke early with a need to write the words that had come to him. Before even stretching or changing, checking his phone or looking out the window, he had to write it down before they were gone, instantly in his notebook, greeting the day before he did. He had the full thing written in mere minutes, going over the whole page sure and decided. He could bring it the very next time he went to the theater. He sighed, feeling completed. There was a sudden bang that seemed to have shaken the entire apartment, a heavy groan that Ludwig recognized. He stood and rushed over to the living room, meeting with Feliciano on a messed heap on the ground, rolling about as he tried to find a control to his movements.

He groaned, “ah, where am I?”

“We're in Gilbert's apartment.”

Feliciano suddenly sat up, turning to him, eyes widened and distressed. “What-what happened last night?”

“We went clubbing and you drank an entire bottle of alcohol…I can't recall if it was beer or wine.”

“It was wine,” Feliciano managed to remember as he scratched his fingers through his hair. “I did so because I was sad…what was I sad about again?”

Ludwig sighed, “I stayed in the same corner and refused to to do anything else.”

“Oh yeah…” he stared on with that melancholy out the window, trying to bring back his breath and ease. Hm, he didn't feel as bad as he expected for a morning after he drank a whole bottle. “But…you did end up doing something…I think I was very happy after a bit.”

“Yeah…I did end up dancing.”

Feliciano glowed stars and the shine of the morning. He gasped, “did you end up dancing with a pretty boy?”

Ludwig smirked, taking a lean to the shelf there. “I did.”

“Who?”

“You don’t remember?”

“Um…” Feliciano tried to wonder hard, with a single finger scratching the side of his face hoping it would help bring the memory back. “I…danced with someone…I know I did…I know it was really nice…I should have been able to see you with the pretty boy.”

“Feliciano…I was the one you were dancing with.”

“Wait…I’m the pretty boy?”

“Yes,” Ludwig couldn’t help but laugh.

Feliciano widened…and then reddened intensely as surely the memories of their dance came crashing hard that moment. “Uh…I…um…uh,” he stuttered and looked away, trying to hide a hardened blush.

“Uh…is something wrong?”

“Oh, no, no, nothing is just, uh…Ludwig…if I recall…we were grinding on each other.”

“Yes, but that was just the dance…right?”

“Yeah…yeah, of course! It was just a dance!” He seemed relieved…yet disappointed. “Sure, it looks dirty, but we were just…having fun.” Feliciano then stood, an innocent picture, a smile and yet another weight to the force of telling themselves they were still just really good friends.

“I…did have fun,” Ludwig smiled at him, gripping his hands to avoid sharing the same blush Feliciano held. He could do this, he could pretend he wasn’t in love, that his heartbeat wasn’t quickening and that he wasn’t thinking about how hard he wanted to kiss him. If Feliciano was in the same state, he had a better composure about it than he himself did.

“I’m really glad…that was the whole point.”

“Well then, the least I could do is give you some breakfast and accompany you back to Keron as a reward, I guess.”

And the name was a crash that destroyed the heavenly air and made Feliciano realize something major. He didn’t make it back…he hadn’t written anything to him…he hadn’t checked his phone…

“Oh no!” Feliciano already began to panic, hands going to the side of his head.

“What's wrong?” Ludwig worried, coming close and already offering his hands.

“What else?! Keron! He…he doesn't know where I went! I didn't let him know anything! He-he's going to kill me!”

“First of all, I need you to breathe, you're panicking and we need to rationally think first,” Ludwig suggested and he gave the space for Feliciano to do just that, hard, having to use his own hands along with the movements of his breaths to try and stabilize them.

Keron was awful…what he had made in Feliciano made Ludwig think he deserved as far as prison. This was not the reaction one should have to their boyfriend. Ludwig had never been in a relationship before, but he assumed it didn’t mean this panic, this control, the uncertainty and a concern that one’s life could be in danger.

“Okay, okay, okay, I’m breathing, I’m breathing, now what?”

To Ludwig, Feliciano still looked very much stressed and he hesitated to continue. “First, check your phone. What do the messages from him say or do you have any missed calls?”

Feliciano was terrified, but did so. He looked through it for some time…and it actually helped to calm him…especially since, “he didn’t write or call me at all.”

Ludwig couldn’t hold the breath of relief. “That's…that's good…right?”

“Um…I don't know. I won't really know until I get home.”

“I'll go with you.” He had already turned to grab his things.

“Ludwig, we've talked about this. You know how angry he'll get if he sees you with me…especially if I ‘m coming back a day after.”

“It's just…I'm worried about what he could do to you.” He showed well his fear and concern…and Feliciano scolded himself for letting it make him smile and sway.

Feliciano tried to make it go away with his own sigh, “I’ll be fine. If you want, I promise to call you and tell you what happened afterwards.”

“Can I at least go with you to the station?”

“Sure!”

“Okay…but I better get a call no matter what happens.”

“Got it!” And he saluted once more.

They quickly went for their things and made their way out, a morning gorgeous and tempting for much more than just the short route to Hermannplatz. Reluctantly Feliciano took his train, but not before reassuring Ludwig once again that he would call.

Chapter Text

Ludwig had spent the entire day glued to his phone. Constant checks between writing, letting Erszèbet and Francis know he had the single missing song, e-mails from his farm and an occasional quick bite to pieces of pretzels that Gilbert had brought as some sort of hangover treat from the night before. When the phone rang, Feliciano's name clearly on it, Ludwig had hurled himself towards it and didn't let it ring for longer than a second.

“He didn't notice I was gone,” Feliciano quickly began, relieved and surely well.

Ludwig shared in the same release of breath. “How? Usually he wants to know every single thing you do.”

“He has a work trip to Bali soon and he's been really focused on it. He assumed I would stay in the room the entire time and didn’t bother to check.”

The other woman surely. Ludwig was still waiting for a more opportune time to tell Feliciano…having to bite his tongue from mentioning anything. “Are you…feeling okay though?”

“I…I don’t know. On one hand, I’m glad he didn’t face me about it, but on the other hand…what would have happened if he did? Ludwig…I was terrified.” Ludwig worried he was about to cry. He broke and there was a trembling that made Ludwig want to hold him in calm. “What…what kind of relationship is that? Where I’m living in fear the entire time. And now…he just doesn’t care? It…infuriates me! I’m left helpless, confused and…sometimes I don’t know what to do.”

Ludwig let Feliciano break in sobs, his own comfort being his presence, his breaths as a reminder that he was listening, that he was there. “Feliciano…at the end of the day, it’s your decision…but as I’ve told you before…I’m here for you and-”

“I should break up with him,” he dared to finally omit.

Well…yes, it’s what everyone including himself wanted…but he wasn’t going to outright say it…especially if Feliciano could take it as an insult, as doubt to what he could do. “If it’s what’s best…didn’t you say you still had some things to do?...which is why you’re still staying,” he reminded.

Feliciano sighed deeply, “yes…but I think soon…should be the time…and then I can do it.”

Ludwig nodded, “you deserved to be with someone you actually love…like…uh…Julius Roma.”

There was a long silence…Ludwig wondering if he was there, if what he had even said was the right thing.

“Someone I love…” At least Ludwig knew his tears had ceased. “Ludwig…” he breathed out wantingly.

“What?” Ludwig didn’t know how else to respond, somewhat shaken.

Feliciano sighed, “nothing…but…thank you…thank you so much.”

Ludwig smiled, a grin he hoped Feliciano could feel it over by him. “Anything…” he breathed out.

“I…have to go…Keron is really going to question me standing out here so long.”

“Don’t worry about it…see you for the next rehearsal.”

“Definitely!” The usual jump of his voice.

How he loved to hear it and always wanted to hear it. How much he had to hold himself from telling him he loved him that very moment.

“Ciao.”

“Tschüss.”

And the call was over…both feeling like they left some things unsaid.

Ludwig saw a poster for the first time at the train station. It was large, Ivan in the middle, deep in his albino makeup, surrounded by all kinds of different dancers from different numbers. It was all in the cradle of mysterious arms, the title ‘Komet’ covering what would be Natalya's face. It was really well done, in wonderful colors that easily attracted, settling a curiosity that made Ludwig more excited for the ever closer premiere date. The roar of a coming train reminded him that maybe he should be heading up to the theater…Erszèbet, Liên and Francis were waiting for him to do a quick check on this new song he had. The last and final piece to the show.

There was a lot of commotion, people moving in every direction, singing, dancing, acting, commanding, moving little and heavy objects, all trying to solidify and finish off in the very little time they had. Between the commotion he found Feliciano with the stage design group, all so focused on their planning, moving and proofing that he wouldn't be annoyed if he didn't see him. And yet…he still spared an excited wave, a large smile, enough to make everything around Ludwig halt and gray compared to him.

So bad…he was in love so bad.

He gave him his own shy wave before he had to continue down another hall to meet with the three. They were huddled in a corner, their stress practically painting the walls around them, close to shouting and surely throwing items at his approach. Ludwig settled with just dropping the page in the middle of all the notes and documents. At first they were insulted, ready to lash out violently, but when they noticed Ludwig, as well the format of the page, they knew, going to it and reading it through.

“Hm, Whatever She wants,” Francis read out loud.

Ludwig had to change the gender in favor of the comet. He was quite proud of it for something that came suddenly after dancing with Feliciano.

“This is great!” Erszèbet shouted with relief.

“Is there anything you want me to fix?” Ludwig wondered, ready to act on the first command.

“I think it's fine the way it is. Now we just have to get everyone working on it quickly. The premiere is only two weeks away,” Liên was already typing on her tablet, with emails and instructions that already sent people to work that instant.

“What do you say Francis?” Erszèbet thought it was best to ask him before continuing.

“I made the right choice with you three,” he smiled with such galore…but the three just moved away from him before he ended up doing something too intimate.

“Well, Ludwig, you are officially finished with your part of the show,” Liên thought it well to congratulate. And Ludwig smiled relieved, breathing out all the stress. He could almost go out and twirl Feliciano in his happiness. But he would surely be busy, like many others in the hectic energy of preparation with only days away for the premier.

The opening show was only three days away and Ludwig did well to stay away from the theater as things only got more suffocating. Feliciano had texted him and also called with tear filled agonies. Ludwig wouldn’t hang up until he was sure Feliciano was breathing calmly and could go back to work with a clear head.

They had promised to watch the premiere together from backstage, and whatever the outcome, to celebrate with drinks and have a sleepover at Gilbert’s. Ludwig smiled as he hung up, before then making his entrance into Gilbert’s separate garage space. He had insisted he came today, he was to put the final piece on the motorcycle and turn it on in its completed form for the first time. Monumental, he needed his little brother there and Ludwig had obliged, understanding its importance and feeling honestly honored that Gilbert wanted him to be a part of it. Said albino was currently wiping to a shine the silver parts, a large grin, practically jumping even as he was kneeling.

“Wow…it actually looks amazing,” Ludwig complimented once his eyes landed on it.

For something that started out as many pieces of junk, it looked new, compact, stylish, modern, sleek and thin…absolutely phenomenal and he was deeply impressed. His brother truly had an intellect and a hand of engineering that was far more than what he looked and he tended to show.

“I know! My hands are that of a god’s!” He exhilarated and Ludwig rolled his eyes.

“Don’t push it…so, ready to ignite it then?” He took a seat on one of the available crates.

“Whoa, take it easy, I just polished it! Besides, we have to give it a name!”

“Friedrich the second?”

“No, no, I only want my bike named Friedrich. We need another one for the motorcycle.”

“I don’t know, Henry?”

“No!”

“Ugh, Analiese.”

“No…how about after Opa Aldrich?”

“I don’t think it suits it.”

“Giovanna?”

“Alexander?”

Gilbert hummed for a moment before it rang in his head. “Alexander!” He snapped his fingers in approval.

“Great, it has a name. Now, turn it on!”

“Why are you in a hurry? I thought you already finished all the writing for the show.” Gilbert went and picked the key from his backpack, shining triumphantly and widening his grin.

“I did…but I still want to make sure my suit is ready, that I have my backstage passes and to know the protocols so I don’t end up accidentally getting on stage for Natalya’s big final.”

“Hey, this should only take a minute, and afterwards you can go back to also preparing your incredible declaration of love to Feliciano.” Gilbert went to the motorcycle, making some last dusting of the key socket and the key itself. He was slightly nervous…the fact that Ludwig stayed silent didn’t make it anymore easier. He put the key in, relieved that it fitted perfectly. All he needed to do was just turn. He glanced at his brother, who was concerned, eyes lost, one leg beginning to nervously tap.

“Are you…are you actually thinking of telling Feliciano what you feel about him…that day?”

“Yes…no, near it, I want to…perhaps…I don’t know.”

“What?” Suddenly the motorcycle didn’t seem so important. “Are you going to or not?”

Ludwig gave a heavy sigh, “fine, yes…I want to tell him how I feel after the show.”

“Haha, nice! Hopefully he doesn’t slap you afterwards. If you’re going to tell him, I’m going to assume it’s because he finally broke up with that ass.”

“I think if they broke up, you would be one of the first ones to find out.”

“So, he hasn’t broken up with him then?”

“No…”

Gilbert sighed, completely letting go of the motorcycle to turn to his brother. “Then why the sudden impulse to tell him now? Do you…think he’s going to feel the same way about you.”

Ludwig silenced, eyes scanning the garage. “I don’t know…highly likely not.”

“I mean…Feliciano has opened up to you more than anyone. You two have really come close and he’s done more than the usual for you,” Gilbert shrugged, “who knows, you might be surprised with what he tells you back.”

“Thanks, but I rather not keep any hopes.”

“Suit yourself…but I think you'll get a pretty positive response.”

Ludwig realized how much he wanted it…how much he would celebrate with embraces and kisses.

Feliciano right now had in his hands to either bring him an infinite amount of happiness…or a heartbreaking that he didn't think he would ever get over.

He sighed…worried and fearing that the second was more probable. “Just turn it on already!” He suddenly demanded.

“Goddammit, fine!” And just like that, Gilbert turned the key and the engine roared beautifully. He laughed loudly, pacing in circles, trying to find some abnormality, but the motorcycle stayed put, ready to use and making all the right sounds.

Ludwig smiled, applauding for him and truly feeling immense pride.

Gilbert had almost cried.

Chapter Text

The crowd that came was much larger than Ludwig had been expecting. They were all dressed in elegant suits and dresses, with a fine air that was reminiscent of a gala. Sure, his suit had been expensive, it was primed to perfection…but he felt that the simple buttoned shirt underneath wasn't appropriate enough…maybe he should have worn a cravat like his cousin…who was here, with him a crowd of cameras and shouts. Rodrich walked past them without giving them a glance, determined to make his way to his seat. Erszèbet joined him for that, but soon enough had to go backstage…both wishing farewell with a long kiss of luck. Ludwig thought it was quite adoring, before he knew he had to make his own way backstage…Feliciano was waiting for him…as well the kids from the kindergarten. They would be the first act and the attention was currently on them.

On the corridor right before the stage, the children were all lined up, dressed to precision in their elden peasant wear. Some from the costume department were making final adjustments, talking sweetly to the more confident kids, while some parents were kneeled down next to their own child trying to calm their nervousness. Here he found Feliciano, kneeling in front of one of the boys who looked shaken and would surely burst into tears soon.

“Matias, you practiced so much and you were so happy to come here!”

“But there's a lot of people,” he was terrified.

“Yes, a lot of people who are really going to enjoy what you will do for the show. Remember, what's most important is that you have fun. You have to imagine it as another day at the kita. Everyone is here, it will be easy!”

The boy nodded, much more calmly, only keeping a finger in his mouth as self comfort.

“You're going to do great, I know it!” Feliciano caressed his hair and embraced him and it was enough to light a smile and bravery ready to face the world.

“Promise you'll be watching.”

“Definitely! I won't keep my eyes off the stage!”

“As will I,” Ludwig introduced himself to all.

All were instantly shouting his name and jumping around him in welcome, circling and piling, hoping words from one their favorite teachers.

“It's good to see you all here. You look fantastic. Yekaterina, Luis and Talim are already sitting down with the audience and they can’t wait to see you all. We've been practicing for weeks and now we're finally here. Anytime now it's going to start. Are we ready?”

“Ja!” They all shouted together in a wonderful chorus, some parents laughing and making pictures or videos about it.

“We will give everyone an incredible show.”

“Yay!” They all celebrated and grew more joyous, getting together with their friends, chatting loudly and now brimming with anticipation to go out and perform.

Feliciano chuckled as he stood back up and now Ludwig could properly look at him. His suit was much more tighter than his own, a much shinier black with the pale blue shirt underneath just as glimmering. It all worked so well, alluring his form and making his smile the more splendid. Ludwig had to really hold himself to not drool.

“You’re uh…you’re looking…nice,” was all Ludwig could manage in his blushing state.

Feliciano chuckled, “nice? Thank you! I think you look absolutely gorgeous.”

“Thanks…I don’t feel like it’s enough though.”

Feliciano walked nearer to him, daring to let his hand dust and straighten part of Ludwig’s jacket. “It’s perfect for the night.” And he raised and placed a kiss on his cheek before he was moving elsewhere, leaving Ludwig in bliss.

He really…was going to try and tell him today….that he loved him. Feliciano went to speak with Rayyan, both concentrated on some stage directions they were going over on a tablet. He shone so sexy with that focus and command and for a moment he thought about giving it all up. But that smile he always turned to him, no matter how stressed, no matter the work and what was to come…he had to, he deserved to know what he had made in him.

And suddenly Francis was making his way to them, clapping and whistling loudly. “Ten minutes everyone! Ten minutes! Gather around! Gather around!” While making sure that the children and their parents were still at the front ready to initiate everything, all the dancers, actors and workers came in, nervous, expectant, but vibrant. Ludwig and Feliciano found one another, grinning how they instantly knew to take their sides, quite squeezed with all these people here, but they didn’t mind it at all.

“Ah! Here we are! Six strenuous months of preparation, hardships, and trials, and today we present it for the world to see, a completed work we are surely immensely proud of. First of all, hands to all of you, absolutely all of you, even those who make the tiniest movements possible.” A break was allowed for that wave of applause and whistles and shouts. “Now it’s time to get this large spectacular moving! I wish you all the best of luck! Enjoy this time to shine and splendor-” he went on in compliments, but in that moment, Ludwig noticed something pretty dire. Ivan was there, yes, fitted with his first costume that he would use for the second number…but he seemed nervous, looking about and playing with some cufflinks on his blouse.

Natalya wasn’t there.

Ludwig understood she wasn’t supposed to perform till the very final number, but she did have a song for the first act…she should be there with everyone. She wasn’t the most thrilled to do this, but it was still an important gesture for the production.

“One minute!” Someone had called, the air tensing, everyone frozen and suddenly terrified.

“Oh! Oh! Oh! Oh! I have to shut my mouth! Un, deux, trois, quatre ! C'est l'heure de jouer, mes chéris.” No one understood what he said, but they all shouted and acted as if they were called to fight.

Everyone left to their positions and there came the first command, for the children to begin their entrance. They all took a unified deep breath before they went on their own, perfectly lined, two rows emptying the hall and kickstarting the show. Ludwig and Feliciano were right by the end, last applauses and thumbs up before the orchestra began playing the very first song.

Ludwig and Feliciano watched as the children sprinkled the scene along with the song, fun skips and spins, pouring unto the forest that began to grow under their steps. Ludwig wondered at how everything arose like real magic, the kids making their place in the different floral habitats that the stage offered, almost as if it was planned, when Ludwig was sure that they were just using the now moving and rising platforms as their new playground. Feliciano feared the worst when he saw some of the platforms fly so high, the children continuing their games uncaringly. The crowd awed and Yekaterina was surely crying tears of pride from her seat.

As part of the script, they had to create what they could of a comet, be it drawing it on a paper, arranging it with rocks or sticks or flowers, or even singing loudly about how good it will be and that it will bring good wishes. It arose much more elegantly than whatever Ludwig would have written as dialog. Then, when they had everything, they were meant to come together, spin, dance and play with their designs.

Ludwig and Feliciano witnessed how their idea was the best choice, and how beautifully it was being played. Feliciano at some point even took Ludwig’s hand in a harshened grip, trying hard to contain the shrills of joy that wanted to pour to even the audience.

At a particular cue, they knew the song was coming to an end and as professionals, the children came to the order they had practiced. In just the dust they started, they sprinkled away until the last child took with him the last lights of the stage, leaving darkness and for the backstage to work on preparing the next song. Already loud applause erupted from the audience, whistles and praises, the loudest surely Yekaterina, Luis and Talim, along with the parents. Feliciano could finally let out his shout, opening his arms trying to take as many kids as he could in this gigantic group hug. Ludwig wouldn’t judge them if they started crying.

“You did so good! So incredibly good! It was amazing!” Feliciano shouted while jumping, he just couldn't contain himself any longer. It was contagious, the children jumping and shouting along with their own adrenaline, many of them repeating the very words Feliciano just said.

“Get out! Get out! Get out! You’re blocking the way!” Francis shouted as he pushed through along with the dancers and actors for the next song.

Ludwig moved the whole kindergarten crowd out through another hall…before Francis started hitting Feliciano with his large clipboard.

The drums of the orchestra began the suspenseful second song, to a city in the old turmoils of the mid eighteenth century. Buildings now long gone from Berlin were erected in Feliciano’s beautiful rendition. Even if the dirt, decay and darkness, the daily routine of people shaded in cynicism…it was a feast of beauty to the eyes. People danced in a much harsher approach, violent, fearful, only Ivan's a graceful beckon, large enough to make himself shine without the artificial lighting. It all looked like a brawl, and Ludwig and Feliciano couldn't really focus on it as they were still dealing with the children's celebration. It was sadly short lived, since many had to instantly go home for bed, wishing goodbyes and luck for the rest of the show. Only a couple were allowed to stay, Isabella one of them, being of the eldest, who had decided to hang by Ludwig and Feliciano's side, her parents confident and eager to see her from the audience.

“Is it really okay for me to stay with you guys?” She had asked as she joined them on their watch right by the stage, where they had an amazing clear view of everything that was happening. They saw as Ivan made jumps, twirls and long expenses through the stage, seeming to fly over the others that brought about carriages and sacks with them. It was impressive and the music, despite the strenuous feel, was majestic.

Ludwig shrugged, “you have to stay near anyways, might as well stick together.”

“And enjoy the show!” Feliciano shone and Ludwig understood that he should expose his part pridefully. He had seen him work on this agonizingly sometimes for months. For now, everything was perfect, it made one want to reach their hands and join them all in this transport of time. Ludwig spared him one of many smiles, the orchestra now finishing the second, applauses and quickly after the melody started for the third.

It was the first worded song, Rumors in Berlin.

“New warm wind blows, summer has begun,” the citizens had begun to sing ominously.

In this darkness, a speaker comes up, standing tall on some opportune placed box, a light shining down singularly on him. Ludwig recognized Gael.

“Meine freunde, I hear you, the city hears you, we are prospered, we are blessed, may god save the German people and long live Prussia.” Applauses, weak and the words almost disappearing in what was supposed to be this busy day in the old streets.

“Prospered? Blessed? I look around and fail to see that. God has abandoned us, and to hell with Prussia.”

Ludwig almost laughed at how he noticed Gilbert placed a hand to his heart, hurt.

“They tell us times are better
Well, I say they're not
Can't cook an empty promise in an empty pot
A brighter day is dawning! It's almost at hand!"

“The skies are gray,
War awaits us, and you shall soon be taken to its front.”

“Long live Prussia!”

“Berlin is booming! A city on the rise.”

“We swear it’s really friendly.”

“If you don’t mind a coming puppet regime.”

“Long live the king!”

“Can the king give me some bread?”

“We’re good and loyal citizens, and we would like to keep our heads.”

“Everyone is happy! Come on, let’s put this gloom away!” Ivan as Lorenz shouted and danced about and tried to be a positivity that kept being floundered with glares and rolls of eyes.

“Some of us don’t have rooms gilded in gold, taken from bloody wars, death in our hands, let’s just make this another day then.”

“Guten Morgen, meine Freunde!”

“Well now let’s dare to hope.”

They gathered, they seemed to circle together in union until an above whisper came before all.

“Have you heard, the rumors in Berlin? Have you heard
What they're saying on the street?”

Mattias suddenly had the light on him, he held old telescopes and star measurers, with words meant to announce his discovery. “A comet is set to pass, a wish it shall grant.”

“A wish for us!”

“Or curse us all!”

“It's a rumor, a legend, a mystery
Something whispered in an alleyway
Or through a crack
It's a rumor that's part of our history”

“Perhaps there shall be a rain of gold!”

“Or it will slay the whole city to extinction.”

“Lorenz, have you heard of the comet yet?” Emil came rushing to Ivan’s side. “Will you make a wish? Or will you hide like the rest? Some say it shall be lovely. If I could, I would wish to be a count, but I won’t test my luck. What if it kills? What if it brings a flood? Oh, I don’t know!”

“Theo, I’ve been thinking about this comet like the rest,” Ivan sang and spoke still in such formality despite the haggardness surrounding him.

“And what do you say?”

“It's the rumor, the legend, the mystery, and I believe it will help me fly, I will go down in history, I will go out at night and make my wish, let it dress me up and make me immortal.”

“You want to be immortal?”

“I can pull it off, just wait and see, I’ll ring throughout the decades, And forever be the talk of Berlin!” And he sprinted off to keep showing the grace of his dance.

“Have you heard
The rumors in Berlin?
Have you heard?
Freund, what do you suppose?”

“A fascinating mystery”

“The biggest con in history!”

“The comet, komet, will it leave us alive or dead? Who knows? Shh!” And like that it was over. Another round of roars, Isabella clapping excitedly next to an impressed Ludwig and Feliciano.

The figures were frozen as the next song was prepared, Isabella in quite a still, especially when- she suddenly gasped, “I’m on again!”

“Cara, go, go, get ready!” Feliciano insisted, leading her to her place with the rest that were set to come along.

The stage darkened, representing the coming night, the fourth song began. All had slowly made their way back home, the only lights those of the windows and the street lamps. But there was worry, there was fear. Some rushed home in panic, a child, Isabella playing her part, ran scared to her mother, who shut the door behind to an emptying street. Only Lorenz dared to test this mandate, appearing like a white ghost to illuminate what was now a blackened street. In his dance, he made an exit of the city, in a feat that involved revolving the stage until they were at a forest setting, plentiful in green and beautiful moonlight. Ludwig had turned to Feliciano to give him his silent impression. Feliciano had nodded, relieved that the turn had come out perfectly, just as they rehearsed and planned, even with how difficult the technicalities had been. With what was left of the song, Ivan made a singular ballet routine, fading his movements along with the finishing melody until he had come to rest by the trunk of a tree in waiting.

Applauses, and Isabella peaked up to them, by their side again. Ludwig and Feliciano smiled and placed their hands on her shoulder. “Where's Natalya?” She suddenly asked as the orchestra prepared the next song.

“Why are you asking?” Ludwig wondered.

“When I was over there, Liên started asking for her, but nobody knew how to answer.”

“Do you know if she's here in the theater?” Feliciano whispered in worry.

“Yes, I know. I saw her come in earlier,” Ludwig made sure.

“But why is she not coming?” Their chat was interrupted by the grim and grueling music that started. It already evoked a deepening of fear. Feliciano trembled and even wrapped an arm around Ludwig's own. Sure, it was fearsome, but Ludwig couldn't help the smile, rubbing Feliciano's hair and even pulling him closer for assurance as it continued.

A light began to come, covering in blue the forest and awakening Lorenz. Something was creeping, something was coming, in shadows that moved around the stage and crowd like ribbons. But no figures came yet, they only wrapped the stage in an obstacle for Ivan. He used them to move from one level of the stage to the next, in a wonderful feat that continue to awe and show the extent of his skill. He made it look so easy, a second nature that none of them could understand, but let him, he was already making this a masterpiece.

All the ribbons recoiled in a beautiful twist that sunk him down like a current, disappearing into nothingness, bringing the stage along with him as well as the song. Applauses, then the sixth number. Dreary, but much more calm than the last, almost like a whisper, barely audible, but it was the entrance that Herakles needed to make his slow descent. Mist, calls, his passage singular, tentative, testing and proving. Despite how the song kept still, Herakles began moving the mist to figures, symbols, almost like making his own kind of magic circle. He danced, the figures joined him, unaware to an Ivan that watched and tried to hide between them.

Herakles was playing a messenger from the comet, meant to explore the land they will take and make sure that it was safe for it to pass. The song ended with his approval, sending high a beautiful white floral design that was supposed to be some sort of symbol for the comet, but nothing readable for humans like Lorenz.

The seventh number began, in which these mists that Herakles had taken began to take life, taken a physical form in a darkened matter that sure, the dancers made impressive, but it was still the nightmare side of the comet, many times Ludwig and Feliciano having to cover Isabella’s eyes. She complained, because it was still amazing, but they were not going to risk plaguing her dreams in nightmares. The next song didn’t make it any better, taking an electronic beat that made the next dance routine robotic, yet with enchanting moves that still left Ludwig and Feliciano agape.

“Are you sure you’re okay?”

Ludwig and Feliciano turned as they overheard Liên. She was with a group of girls, all pristinely dressed even if they were meant to sing from backstage…unlike Natalya…who looked haggard, tired, broken, with the whitish make up and the first parts of her costume making her look more like a ghost.

“I’m fine,” she wallowed…exactly like a spirit.

“Natalya, I don’t think-”

Natalya slapped the hand Liên tried to offer. “I said I’m fine! Get me a damn microphone so I can sing already!”

Despite the inquisitive looks from all around, they still did as she said, getting them their microphones, making sure they would work, practicing their vocal chords, Natalya managing…with coughs in between.

“I don’t think she’s fine,” Isabella whispered to them and they had to agree. They ended up paying more attention to her than the finishing number, with a beautiful sweep that like a natural stream exited the stage.

New functions were now meant to play for the stage, which Feliciano grew nervous for as the new applause rang.

Sweating, hurt and all worried she would faint over the microphone that was below her, Natalya managed to begin:

“I run in the night
A shadow, I hunt
I'll kill the dark with beacons of light, of light.”

As spectacular as that first time she had taken the entire rehearsal.

From darkened stages, beautiful figures began to come, ghosty, ethereal. Everyone was shocked as if they were encountering such figures themselves in a forest of mist and light. As the music intensified, mirror pillars began to rise, just as they danced all about in an incredible and mystical waltz, their wonderful figures reflecting in a doubling of the intricacies of their excessive costumes.

“Don't fear us
Our time has come
We bleed for our freedom
Don't fear us
The night has won
It's our blood
Our freedom.”

Francis was in a corner, biting on a handkerchief to stop himself from crying.

In this calm part of the song, Lorenz makes his entrance between the figures, their dance slowed so he could witness their mysticity better, in just as spectacular movements that mended well with the rest of the dancers, even if he wore something so different, simple and not in the reflectives black, whites and silvers that duplicated their dances in the mirrors.

And then the next part of the song heightened again, and the diamond shards were released. A combined awe and gasp from the crowd as they flew about and seemed to expand throughout the whole theater, the dances growing along with them, in jumps and bigger circles that seemed to pull every member into the waltz.

“Don't fear us
Our time has come
We bleed for our freedom
Don't fear us
The light has won
It's our blood
Our freedom.”

Natalya shut down the microphone for her part to cough, loudly, heaving her and causing large concern backstage. No one really noticed how the rest of the singers hummed a beautiful finish and as the dancers made a just as perfect swift exit, the shards and mirrors returned as if they had never been there.

“I have to go, they really need me by the controls for this part,” Felicinao knew.

For some reason Ludwig panicked, taking his arm as he began to leave. Feliciano gazed down at it and to Ludwig in question. “Are you…are you coming back here?”

“Ludwig…of course. I’ll come down as soon as I finish.”

“Yeah…yeah, yeah…I’ll see you.” He realized how sudden he had been, embarrassed, letting go, but now having a hesitant Feliciano…who was debating if he should really leave Ludwig’s side. They did promise to stay together the entire show.

“Feliciano!” Erszèbet shouted from the top of some stairs and Feliciano had to go, rushing up to her haste.

Ludwig sighed and turned back to the stage just as the 10th number began, the final of the first act, meant to be the biggest number in this part of the show.

Shouts, new colors, people and even animals beginning a slow entrance, quickening as they came to the center to a rising Herakles, preparing the more colorful of his wear for this part of the comet’s passing.

Now the beauty was meant to come, the good, the wishes, the festivity, the utter joy that the children at the beginning had said it would be. And indeed it was.

It was good to finally see a spectacle of colors, the digital animals almost looking real, the dances almost coming to the audience, parts of the stage floating again. It was just a lot going on and Ludwig could understand why Feliciano was needed in the control panels to help keep it working as it was. He just hoped he had a nice view of this utter beauty. Isabella was clapping and jumping and was tempted to join in the incredible dances that seemed to go all throughout the theater. There was fire and pyrotechnics and the crowd was going absolutely wild for it.

Around the ending, Ivan as Lorenz sang and made his welcome, proclaiming his wish to be an immortal along with them. Someone came, Zach, playing another messenger from the comet, in wonderful acrobatics above the stage that really made some believe they were actually flying. Zach sang along with Ivan, taking his welcome and the comet’s acceptance into their kingdom. In an incredible melodic final, everything suddenly shut in darkness, and like that, the first part of the show was done.

Loud and roaring applauses, standing ovations, even some encores were shouted. Curtains were drawn, interlude music began, chatter started, and everything, for a moment, seemed peaceful, but one that could be broken.

“Natalya is sick…very badly sick,” Liên declared loudly, when it was meant to be private words for Erszébet, but right now both were not caring at all about who could hear in the worry that now coated them.

“What is it? Can we heal it in the next hour?” Erszébet still wanted to hope.

“The nurse said it could be bronchitis…there's no possible way we can heal it in the next hour,” Liên had to break. Ludwig could tell that Erszébet was ready to cry.

“Didn’t we get understudies for her?”

“No! We don’t have understudies for anybody!”

“Does Ivan know?”

“Yes. Right now he’s in her room trying to help.” Erszébet paced, trying to figure something, raising her hands hoping for some divine intervention, clenching her fist ready to punch something when nothing like that didn’t come as instantly as she wished.

“Rodrich!” Liên suddenly suggested.

“Oh no, definitely not.”

“Ivan?”

“That won’t work at all!”

They went through all the dancers and singers they had in their selection, shouting and groaning each time they realized it wasn’t possible.

“I…am going to die!” Francis suddenly proclaimed, entering with sweat, hair disheveled…was that mascara running down his face?

“Relax, we’ll find somebody,” Erszébet hoped as her voice shook.

“Uh…can Natalya still…just perform,” Liên suggested with a shrug.

“Are you insane?! First of all, that is just straight up abusive. Second, she’s just going to cough up the entire performance…we might as well just cancel the entire ending number.”

Francis turned, taking a random handkerchief to bite in, cry and just spin around in utter misery.

“Quick, who else do we got?” Liên still asked on, trying to keep some sense.

“We already went through all the actors and dancers!” Erszébet was going all over again the list she had on her phone.

As they continued fretting, their anguish began to slowly creep all over the backstage. Everyone was rushing to get ready for the second act, yet there was this doubt, this fear. Were their numbers worth doing if at the end…they wouldn't have their grand finale? What everyone was awaiting, the biggest part of the show and the main jewel that would make this shine.

“Show must go on! Show must go on!” Francis began to shout as he noticed how almost the entire cast had suddenly gone into a frozen state.

It worked as enough ignite, everyone rushing again and trying to tell themselves that nothing was wrong, that somehow this would work in maybe an unexpected way.

“Okay…what if we look through the staff?”

“The staff? What? Are you going to suggest the janitor plays the comet!”

“I mean, there could be someone in the costume department or in stage design!”

Stage design…Ludwig suddenly thought of that night he had caught Feliciano singing Komet…how divine, shining, hitting all the commands as perfectly as it was meant. In his head…he had always imagined him as the comet…he wrote a lot of the songs with him in mind…as it usually was. When he envisioned that scene, it was with him crowning it alongside his brother.

He had seen them both orchestrate a crowd to wonder, this one shouldn’t be any different.

“Okay, in stage design, there’s Rayyan, Gupta, Farrukh, Liam-” It was at that moment that Feliciano began his exit from the control room, coming down to be with Ludwig again, not seeming to be aware of the chaos that was going around him, the names being read, how Ludwig stared at him intensely, placing him on stage in his head and knowing…he had to do this.

“-and of course, Feliciano-”

“Feliciano!” Ludwig suddenly shouted, loud, freezing all in their startlement, his pointed finger rather prominent in this crowd. “You! Feliciano!” He made his way between the people that were there to get to him, Feliciano too shocked to have moved after being called like that. Ludwig suddenly had his shoulders, close, wanting to really make an intention that had to convince. “Feliciano, you have to play the comet!”

“Huh?”

“What?” The rest shouted.

“I’ve seen you sing the song!” Now was not the time for Feliciano to wonder about that, they had to hurry. “It’s exactly what we need!”

“Ludwig…uh…” Feliciano wanted to instantly deny.

“You worked on the art and stage for it! I know you know the dance, you know the commands, how to keep the song along with everything.”

“Ludwig, are you sure about this?” Erszébet had to come in.

“I’m certain! Just do it! Make everything ready so he can take the part!” He instantly made command as if he was well…Francis.

“Ludwig, wait, no, I can’t possibly-”

“How could I have not seen it!” Francis interjected, coming forward and taking Feliciano’s shoulders on his own, having Ludwig glare at him intensely. “Of course! All this time I was thinking we needed Lovino, but his own brother could have been just as perfect! Feliciano, please, I beg of you! You have to do this!”

“But-I-No! Uh..how-um-...you won’t fix the costume on time!” He suddenly thought it would be enough, in his nervousness still trying to find other excuses.

“Kirkland!” Francis shouted with an intense anger no one had thought possible from the man.

“What?” Five heads popped seemingly out of nowhere, all the siblings with identical freckles, rowdy hair and…bushy eyebrows.

“Feliciano is playing the comet now! Can you fix the dress for the finale to fit him instead?”

It was at that very moment that Liên began to call, noticing the time and that the second act was set to begin. Those who were to head to the stage began to hurry out, forgetting the drama going on and meant to focus on their routines, words, notes and positions.

“How much time do we have?” Alastor, the eldest and Scottish, asked, already taking out his scissors.

“Twenty-nine minutes!” Erszébet shouted, the red shot eyes becoming clearer.

Aaron, second and the Irish one, sighed, but like a soldier called forth to the front lines, he raised his sleeves up and took out measuring tape, “then come on, Feli!”

“No-No! I-I can’t do this! I’m-I’m not-I’m not…uh…what about make up!” He suddenly shouted as Aiden, Allan and Arthur each took a part of Feliciano’s arms and began to pull him.

“Get the makeup department here!” Aiden shouted once they locked themselves in their room.

A much softer melody began, yet loud enough that Ludwig and Isabella couldn’t catch a whisper at all from what was happening with Feliciano. The music was melancholic, almost ghostly. Ludwig and Isabella couldn’t really pay attention to the stage anymore, instead, wanting to know everything with this major change to the ending and how they could continue to make it possible.

“Ludwig…are you sure Feliciano can do this?” Isabella was still slightly worried.

“Positive. Like I said, I’ve seen him sing it. I know he can do it.”

“But…Feli looked so nervous...”

Indeed…there was the fear of crowds, of people finding out who he was, and all out of turning for the worst. But, Feliciano had a voice…a beautiful voice perfect to fit the grandiose this was meant to be. He also had a possibility to be known for it, crowned and bringing him to different heights…perhaps to better keep him away from Keron.

Ludwig sighed, “trust me…he can do it.”

The 11th number was done and as soon as Ivan made his exit, without a single break or even a chance of breath after his dance on stage, he went straight to Erszébet and Liên, still typing, commanding, letting everyone know of the sudden big change made. “You're abandoning my sister…just like that?” He instantly demanded.

On the stage, the twelfth number started, slow and quiet, meant to represent the passing decades. Ivan wasn’t needed for this.

“Ivan, she is sick…very badly sick,” Erszébet dared to stand up to him.

“The deal was that I would play your dumb little Lorenz if only she could take part and play a big role.”

“She can’t do it! She’ll fall dead on stage if you force her to play and sing like she’s feeling.”

“She’s also accepted that Feliciano does it instead,” Liên interjected, just having received her message.

“It doesn’t matter, I refuse to continue to play without her.” He began to take off his ballet shoes, practically ripping apart his blouse and microphones. “She needs me now, and I will offer her that support. If you can find another comet, you can go find another Lorenz.” He dropped the items in front of them and left down the hall to her private wardrobe just like that.

Erszébet and Liên were frozen, mouths agape and letting the minutes pass on as they dealt with the sudden shock.

The thirteenth number started.

“How…how much time do we have to get a Lorenz?” Liên wondered, ready to faint.

“I don’t suppose we can do that in ten minutes.”

“If we got Feliciano, we can get a new Lorenz.”

“The next numbers are all sung, no need for ballet.”

“Okay, so, quick, who can we get that can just go along with everything as insanely as possible and still make it work?”

“What up fucks! I heard everything is falling to pieces and I came to witness the shit show!” Gilbert just exploded in like an answer to some divine call, getting into a group that was having a meltdown over what shade should Feliciano use for the glitter make up.

Both Erszébet and Liên stared at Gilbert for the longest silence, calculating and placing in their minds.

“I know what you’re thinking,” Liên practically saw it…both having the same projection in their minds.

“Yeah, yeah, I know.”

“We’re desperate.”

“Pretty much.”

“Will it work?”

“At this point, I think whatever can happen…happens.”

Liên sighed, getting commands ready on her tablet to go to everyone and to get close to Gilbert, “we’re really going to try and do this?”

“Definitely,” and Erszébet walked by her side, command ready to inflict. “Gilbert!” She called in that tone he knew well…usually when she was at a level of exasperation ready to inflict her worst punishment.

What did he do this time?

He turned, feeling her heavy gaze. He completely detached himself from the group he came into to focus instead on them…who were just staring at him, still wondering if this was really something they were going to do.

“Can you do something for us in-” Erszébet looked at her watch, “-four minutes.”

“Four minutes? What? Sing you a song?”

“Exactly that.”

“...what?”

“We need you to go and play Lorenz.”

Gilbert clapped his hands and even began to exalt a jubilation that caught the attention of all who were near, even a chuckling Ludwig and Isabella.

“You have no idea how ready I am for this shit! Now, quick! What clothes do I use?”

“We have no time for that!” Arthur surely shouted as he dashed by them, carrying a box of different fabrics, shutting himself in the room where they were still working on Feliciano.

“Uh…” Erszébet really tried to think of something.

“I’ll go out just like this!” He declared.

Francis, who was by the stage entrance, almost doubled over and many of the exiting dancers thought he would have a heart attack.

Gilbert was wearing jeans, a nice white buttoned shirt, sure, and even some nice shoes…but that black hoodie, the mess his hair was in, really didn’t match at all with anything that was going on with this show.

“Ersz, we have no choice!” Liên was now shaking, noticing that the number was almost over and Lorenz was supposed to be heading onto the stage…now.

“Make up?” Someone who was just passing by suggested.

Gilbert gasped, insulted. “Excuse me! Can’t you see I’m already albino enough?!”

“Do you need this?” Erszébet at least offered the script of the next four songs, the whole show soon coming to an end, the grand finale in the distance.

“Nope! My brother wrote these! I saw rehearsals! I know what’s happening. I got this!” He even went to the stage entrance, above ready.

Everyone who saw him as he was about to make his entrance had a mix between deep impression…and grand fear. Ludwig had to admit…he was rather envious of his brother’s…way overloaded confidence.

Like that, the fourteenth number began, meant to be ‘Whatever she wants’, oh gott. Honestly the loud trumpets that began were perfect for this. From this part on, as the comet was making its approach back to Earth after centuries, it was beginning to give a more contemporary feel, modern. This number was jazz, swing, away the large dresses and coats, instead something much sultry and revealing. Gilbert, despite how…out of place he was, still made his slide, perfectly, a grin and a glint in his eyes that had already many in the crowd gasping with sudden attraction.

“Whatever she wants, she gets,
And little man, she wants you!”

The dancers behind him did excellently, and despite how Gilbert did less of the movements, his voice was still able to go along, grand and going as perfectly as if it had all been planned. Erszébet was already celebrating with a proud laugh.

“Make up your mind to have,
No regrets,
Recline yourself, resign yourself,
You're through.”

“Has your brother performed in a show like this before?” Isabella asked, curious.

It was going too good to be something last minute.

“She always get what she aims for,
And your heart and soul is what she came for!”

“No…that I know of at least.” Ludwig was starting to really wonder what he was doing those drunk filled nights.

He continued so well, even enjoying himself along with all the dancers.

“Whatever she wants, she gets,
Take off your coat,
Don't you know you can't win?
You're no exception to the rule,
She’s irresistible, you fool,
Give in
Give in
Give in!”

And what a finish, deserving of the fireworks and the standing ovations, even from backstage. It was quite amazing that no one seemed to question Ivan’s disappearance and accepted Gilbert just like that.

“Okay, he’s done!” Alistor declared, disheveled and exhausted.

“Well, let us see him!” Francis demanded, and Ludwig turned to them wanting to see as well.

“Yeah, he’s too nervous to come out right now.”

“But he’s supposed to go on in eleven minutes!” Erszébet shouted.

“He needs someone to talk to him.”

Ludwig didn’t have to be told. He saw as everyone left the room Feliciano was in, and as the last made their passing, Ludwig took that entrance, closing the door behind and locking them both in this moment for now.

Eleven minutes. He sighed and turned up, just at the calling of his name, “Ludwig…”

This was originally intended for a woman, with skin, hair and eyes practically white…Feliciano was the opposite of all this, but the Kirklands made the work of Celtic gods as they did it perfectly intended for Feliciano.

It was in shining whites, golds and diamonds. A beautiful white crown, golden earrings, a plentiful necklace that they made extend to his chest, shoulders hiding behind a very thin layer of intricately designed lace. The corset with the jewels they fixed to go along with Feliciano’s midsection and hips, replacing the long skirt with a long white cape, lastly some pants and boots that grew with him well. They ended up not doing much for make-up, just a spreading of gold glitter, some golden marks around his eyes that only made Feliciano’s eyes match along with everything else.

He was ethereal, the image of a dream, a messenger angel and somehow Ludwig had to find words to talk to him.

“Feliciano…” Ludwig didn’t know how else to start.

“Why did you make me do this?” He sounded hurt, refusing to even look at him. Maybe he even wanted to rip his hair off…but didn’t because of the hard work done to prepare it. He knew when something took a lot of work, especially with his wild curls.

“Because I know you can.”

“How!? Why? What do you see in me that makes you think I can play a titular character? What makes you think I can stand up in front of this crowd and not make a total fool of myself? Do you know what Keron could do to me if I took a public image like this?” He had turned to him insulted, on the verge of tears, growing in anger and ready to attack.

Ludwig somehow felt defensive, an impulse to be forward, in the same anger and force that wanted Feliciano to finally understand his worth.

“Because I know you are absolutely great!” He practically shouted, taking him by the shoulders, harsh, but still a gentility that actually calmed Feliciano. “I’ve seen you be an absolute masterpiece! You can take poetry and make them into beautiful songs! I’ve already told you you sing like an angel. You can take care of land and make things grow, take care of animals, and you care and love your family so much and you are trying to fight for them while also sacrificing yourself to make it possible! You played football! Like a god you told me! You moved to Berlin in the worst circumstances possible and still managed to make the best of it! You were an excellent kindergarten teacher, making many kids adore you! Your exhibitions are gorgeous, your artistry so great that Francis got you to lead the stage design for this whole thing. And you know what, it’s been absolutely beautiful and gorgeous! And perhaps I shouldn’t mention this, but your onlyfans has given me hard ons!” He couldn’t believe he could omit that and still stay rigid and potent, while Feliciano turned feverishly red. “You’re incredible! And I still don’t understand how you refuse to see all this strength that I know can go against Keron and free yourself like you deserve. Keron is nothing compared to you, you shouldn’t let him have this power over you. If I could, I would love to have you instead!”

And suddenly there was a glow between them, something that intensified the other, making one realize…and the other strengthened the already strong feelings he had for him. Time seemed to disappear and for once, Feliciano could really lose himself in those blue eyes that seemed to engulf him, still with a deep shade of red, thinking that he wanted to have him as well.

“You have inspired me, you and my brother are the reason I even made all these songs! So many are for you, Komet was made for you, there’s no one else who would be perfect for this. So please, I beg of you even, do this, I know you can and if you don’t want to do it for Francis, Erszébet, Liên, the cast or the audience out there, then do it for me…please.”

And that’s exactly what Feliciano needed to hear.

“Mhm,” and like that he accepted, nodding, but yet refusing to move, liking this hold Ludwig had of him, liking how near they were, how singular they were in their eyes, the closer their faces inched, their lips beginning to call, near, taking in their breaths, wanting so much that press.

“Five minutes!” Erszébet had to crash in with her desperation. She really didn't care about how close they were, that perhaps she had ruined a very intimate moment, and although she shipped them hard, they still had a whole show here that they had to keep together and they really needed Feliciano for it.

“Are you performing or not?” Erszébet demanded.

“Yes…yes, I will,” Feliciano made sure with a smile and a short grasp of Ludwig's hand, who looked down on him as if he was a gorgeous shining star in the sky.

“Good, then get out here! We need you for a last check up!”

With a quick breath, and refusing to let go of Ludwig's hand, they made their way out, everyone rushing and panicking for the now coming finale.

Isabella was first to give a loud gasp, “Feli! You look so pretty!”

“I must look for myself!” Francis shouted from some corner, pushing and shouting at all who stood in his way, falling items being heard, even some indignant insults. Finally Francis pushed Erszèbet out of the way and had Feliciano in front of him. He sighed, taken as everyone else. “A dream! A beautiful real dream! Agh! Feliciano, you look like an absolute masterpiece!” Ludwig didn't like being ousted aside so Francis could take his own hands to grasp. Feliciano also looked very confused, but out of politeness didn’t refuse. “You will save this show! I am certain! Oh, I can't wait to see what you do!” To Ludwig's relief, he left as soon as he received another call, throwing kisses to Feliciano the entire time. They wasted no time to bring their hands back together, a comfort to both in the hectic essence that surrounded them.

“Three minutes!” Liên shouted.

They headed over to take a sneak at the stage, at this moment a heavy rock song playing, perfectly fitting for Gilbert, who went well with the “Now you do what they told ya!” that had to be constantly shouted over. It was the part where Lorenz was trying to get all inhabitants to revolt against the comet itself.

“Did we miss anything?”

“Just the sweet escape scene, your brother was as crazy as ever,” Aaron did the favor of telling them.

“I thought it was really nice!” Isabella added.

“Fuck you, I won't do what you tell me!
Motherfucker!
Uh!”

Perhaps it was a bad idea to still have Isabella watching.

But with that, the sixteenth number was done…which meant-

“Oh oh, it’s time,” Aaron was the only one that seemed calm as it turned into a storm backstage. Ludwig was feeling how Feliciano’s hand was shaking, looking down at him, realizing he was biting his lips, looking away, ready to blow again.

Ludwig held tighter to his hand, “you’ll be great.”

“I heard Feliciano is going to be the comet!” Gilbert suddenly shouted, sliding unexpectedly, having Feliciano jump and worsen his shake. “What’s wrong?”

“He’s…incredibly nervous. He doesn't think he can do it.”

“What?! How dare you! Feliciano, together, we’ll rock this place! We’ll be gods! They’ll be having wet dreams about us for months!” Gilbert could imagine it greatly.

“But-”

“Sshh! No! We got this! Just imagine this is one of our flute lessons! With Ludwig watching even! Come, I know we can do this! Can I count on you?” And Gilbert held his hand, waiting for that sure acceptance. And indeed…Feliciano could really see Gilbert’s living room, Ludwig on the couch, his flute in hand…ready to perform for him.

“Yes, we can do this!” He shone finally with his known confidence, giving Gilbert a strong high five.

“All right! Now come! Let’s get this over with!” And with a damn battle cry he went to the darkened stage to get ready into his place.

“Feliciano!” Erszébet growled.

“Yes, yes, I’m coming!” Letting himself be taken by her. “Will you be watching?”

“I won’t take my eyes off you,” Ludwig smiled and Feliciano smiled and blushed heavenly before he turned to follow Erszébet to his place.

Slowly the backstage emptied, everyone getting into their place, the orchestra and technicians ready to command, a crowd awaiting with heavy anticipation. Ludwig made his place to watch, Isabella beside him, jumping from side to side wanting this to start already.

“One minute,” somebody whispered, Ludwig not sure who, since a lot of people began to join his side, eager for what was to come.

And then, the piano, simple, a symphonic welcome, slowly lighting a stage of stars, still dark, yet somehow illuminating Gilbert in the center, sitting on a bench. The stars shone along with the keys, gathering around the single albino, almost like another peculiar star. After several seconds of Gilbert moving about his hands, creating auroras as he touched the stars, letting their shine seem to color the room, he began to sing:

“Ich hör die Möwen sing'n am Hafen,
Das letzte Lied zum Rausschmiss,
Zähl schon lang nicht mehr die Jahre,
Die ich im dichten Rauch sitz.”

There aurora began to coat him in a galaxy, him still moving calmly despite the many colors and stars that moved.

“Hier war vorher mal 'ne andre Bar,
Doch der Schnaps schmeckt noch genauso,
Und wenn ich irgendwo zu Hause war,
Dann immer dort, wo der Applaus tobt.”

Gilbert pushed off into a flight some stars near to him, the movement causing some drops of water to ripple across the stage. That's when Ludwig noticed that there was a pool. The pushed stars, along with the melody of the orchestra began to organize themselves across this expanse of space until they reached a being that began to form from the clouds atop it all, catching and holding on to these stars as if they were jewels to admire. Ludwig raised and smiled once he recognized the force of Feliciano's voice, powerful, beautiful, high and just enough to cause a stupor of surprise in the crowd.

“Und wenn ich geh, dann so, wie ich gekommen bin,
Wie ein Komet, der zweimal einschlägt,
Vielleicht tut es weh, doch will auf Nummer sicher geh'n,
Dass ich für immer leb, lass uns nochmal aufdreh'n.”

More melody continued as the figure disappeared, but the mist flowed along, creating a large door, even celestial stairs that began to form before Gilbert, who stood, perplexed as his character was meant to be.

“Und wenn ich geh, dann so, wie ich gekommen bin,
Wie ein Komet, der zweimal einschlägt.”

And Feliciano exploded in welcome, in a spectacular show of light as he made his way down, aiming for Gilbert.

“Vielleicht tut es weh, doch will auf Nummer sicher geh'n,
Dass ich für immer leb, lass uns nochmal aufdreh'n”

Both, in some incredible miracle, started dancing the same moves, pace, large smiles that only made the stage glow the more, laughs in between that caused even the crowd to smile along. Dancers came to add to the watered stage, meant to be figures omitted by the comet to join. Feliciano wasn't really following their same dance, in his own going around them, as Gilbert did his own mix.

“Nehm aus dem Club das Glas mit, Konfetti liegt auf den Straßen,
Trage mit Stolz die Fahne, ex den allerletzten Schluck,
"Wo sind die letzten Tage?", frag ich den Taxifahrer,
Und er fragt mich, wat ick will, ich will nicht einschlafen.”

There was a sudden beat that came that had the figures dancing a wonderful choreography, perfectly matched with the bouncing lights, Gilbert and Feliciano managing to find themselves between, spinning and dedicating.

“Ich will ein'n Fußabdruck von mir, stärker als die Zeit,
Und ich sage dir: "Kein anderer Fuß passt da noch rein,"
Also bitte setz mich nicht zu Hause ab allein,
Sie soll'n seh'n,”

And then there was darkness again, only the light of the few dimming stars, Gilbert was singular again, but Feliciano still behind him, somewhat in hiding, emitting a light that made both ethereal, a perfect sunset inside the theater.

“Ja, wenn ich geh, dann so, wie ich gekommen bin,
Wie ein Komet, der zweimal einschlägt,
Vielleicht tut es weh, doch will auf Nummer sicher geh'n,
Dass ich für immer leb, lass uns nochmal aufdreh'n,”

And with the next blow of singing, all the dancers, every dress, every spirit, every dancer, bursted out in an extravaganza of gold, flying whether with ropes or on the moving stage.

“Und wenn ich geh, dann so, wie ich gekommen bin,
Wie ein Komet, der zweimal einschlägt,
Vielleicht tut es weh, doch will auf Nummer sicher geh'n,
Dass ich für immer leb, lass uns nochmal aufdreh'n,
Lass uns nochmal aufdreh'n,”

Majestically, from a distance, the earth came closer and closer, zooming into Europe, Germany, and then to Berlin as they danced on. Feliciano moved his body in an incredible welcome, all following his lead as he made a new pair of stairs to raise, Gilbert following him, everyone making path for him, for this was his exit.

“Lass uns nochmal aufdreh'n,
Lass uns nochmal aufdreh'n,”

As the city shone under them in its contemporary light, Feliciano presented an escape, kind, sweet, offering his hands as a sort of apology. Gilbert laughed as he took them, letting their true personalities and trust show in this exchange.

“Lass uns nochmal aufdreh'n,
Lass uns nochmal aufdreh'n,
Da-dei-da,
Lass uns nochmal aufdreh'n,
Lass uns nochmal aufdreh'n, yeah.”

And the stage, the feast, was darkened, only a singular line of light that showed Feliciano still reigning at the top, Gilbert with him, but then he was gone, falling, exactly like a comet would, Lorenz back to his home city. As the last ticks rang on, the skyline of the city was seen at a distance, the stars shinning above, Feliciano smiling, waving to one of the stars before everything disappeared in darkness, only a quick passing comet to shine above the city as Lorenz’s last farewell from the comet.

And like that, the show was over. The music stopped, but that didn’t mean the sounds did.

Immediately the theater erupted into roars of applause, Ludwig swearing the entire thing was shaking from the full force of it. Yekaterina was crying, Luis and Talim ready to blame it on the pregnancy hormones…but then they noticed that Sadiq was crying too. Francis was in the same waterfall of tears, now soaking his second handkerchief. Roderich had even stood, smiling, giving intense claps. Antonio instantly called Lovino to let him know, high on the excitement. Liên gave the largest sigh she had ever given, kneeling and close to just falling down to the ground in the exhaustion. Erszèbet hollered, clapped and even jumped like any other in the audience. The whole theater stood in their fascination, calling, whistling, and Ludwig and Isabella wondered if it would ever end, going for so long.

The lights on the stage went on, all matter of dancers, singers and actors coming in turns to make their vow to the public. Herakles, Zach, Gael, Mattias, and then Gilbert, who took at all in like a deserved king. And then it was Feliciano, now the titular character, the star that truly shook the night as Francis had envisioned and dreamed. Of course the strongest force was given to him, Feliciano not sure how to react after the vow he gave, holding Gilbert’s hand as an emotional leverage. He smiled, he waved, shyly, slightly blushful, but oh so beautiful and Ludwig wanted him to finish that instant so he could give his own congratulations.

Slowly they all left the stage, once again darkened, the lights in the audience turning on again, a sign that it was time to leave. They began excited, giddy and with a lot of talk, just as all the actors and dancers came unto the backstage each with their own groups and family members to shout out their victory and celebrate. Feliciano ignored all these groups and people, he rushed with a loud laugh, a large smile, one person only his aim. Ludwig and Isabella ran through the masses, managing to meet him, waves and just as large smiles. Feliciano dashed straight through to Ludwig, jumping into his arms and Ludwig took him in a flourish spin embrace, both laughing and gorgeously wrapped together in the silk, lace and glitter of Feliciano’s cape.

“Oh, I miei santi dei, I can’t believe I did that! I can’t believe I did that!” Feliciano fell breathless at each word, still holding tight to Ludwig, laughing, refusing to let go of this utter happiness he felt.

“See, I told you you could do it,” Ludwig chuckled in turn, both facing one another, their eyes both shining like the glittering stars they felt, that were over them, and they both leaned, a congratulations that begged for their lips.

Feliciano is suddenly swifted away, by an excessively excited Erszèbet, who carries him in quite a messed spin. Feliciano swore he was being choked for a second. “Oh god, you saved us!”

“Indeed you did! I thought I was ruined! I thought I had to start writing my last testament! But you gave me hope to keep on living!” Francis came with his own tightening embrace.

“That was actually way more interesting than I thought it would be,” Liên added, many of the leading producers and directors coming to wish Feliciano all kinds of compliments and success.

Sure, it was great, it was amazing, but even Ludwig could tell that Feliciano wanted to get away from it right now…he wanted to be with him.

“I have to admit,” and there was Natalya, her presence becoming more prominent with the cough she made, “that was actually…way better than if I would have done it.”

“It was the star role!” Ivan was indignant for her.

“And I didn’t want to do it! I only did it because it was the only excuse I had to be with you. I’m honestly perfectly content just singing one song from the back here!” She gave another strong cough, her voice practically disappearing with it. She raised a hand as a sign that she couldn’t say more…it would only hurt her to do so.

“Was…that all?” Ivan was rather incredulous. Natalya nodded, too done, turning and wanting to just head back to her room.

“Uh…could we still count on you to play Lorenz for the next three shows,” Erszèbet dared to ask, nervous and already fearing teaching Gilbert…ballet.

“Well…for the first act…then yes,” Ivan obliged rather happily. Erszèbet had to hold herself from screaming her delight. “Gilbert actually…did a good job playing Lorenz for the second act.” It seemed to hurt him to admit it.

Liên sighed, turning to Gilbert, who was just joining the group, “can you keep playing Lorenz for-”

“Hell yeah! Definitely! Keep it coming!” He clapped his hands, already eager for the next show.

“That’s all so nice! But, can I please now-” Feliciano had found his chance to try and escape.

“Oh, no, no, no! You can’t go anywhere yet!” Francis took a sudden grasp of Feliciano’s arm.

“I’m sorry, Feliciano, but you have to do some signing. There’s a ton of people you have to see, we have to talk to the stage department, costume also has to know if there has to be changes to the suit now that-” on went Liên with all kinds of duties that came with this new role. They had to act quick, not a moment for freedom.

“But-” Feliciano had turned to Ludwig, hoping for even a chance at goodbye.

“Don’t worry, you’ll get your chance to be with him,” Erszèbet assured, before she made him disappear elsewhere…Ludwig left behind…feeling lonely if even the chatter and congratulations that went around him from the other actors and workers.

Only Isabella was there to give him company, letting a hand rub at his arm. “I know…I wanted to say goodbye too.”

Actually, Ludwig wanted more than goodbye…he wanted to kiss him, he wanted to make him his, he wanted to shout how much he meant to him and how he loved him. He gathered the courage, was ready, was expecting for what would happen after tonight…and he was disappointed that it was all for not.

“Isabella!” That was her mother, surely coming to pick her up. Isabella rushed off the moment she saw her parents, embracing, telling their congratulations and how proud they were.

At least Ludwig had the chance to say goodbye to her.

It was depressing how he had arrived back home. Alone, with not even Gilbert there, on his usual routine as if he just hadn’t come back from the premiere of a show that had made headlines.

‘Hope you’re enjoying the night.’ He had written to Feliciano, sighing with disappointment, failure…letting a night pass in which he hadn’t admitted his feelings.

Chapter Text

The next morning, he found himself on the kitchen table, mixing his prepared muesli, not really the appetite to eat. Feliciano hadn’t answered his text from the night. Not even the sudden shake of the apartment, as surely Gilbert crash opened the door to his room, was enough to startle him out of this gloom.

“Now that was a night I’ll not be getting over soon,” Gilbert announced, instantly going to the fridge, getting the oat milk and giving a little celebratory squeal when he noticed that Ludwig had the muesli box already on the table. He had just finished pouring when he noticed the dark cloud that seemed to reign over his younger brother. “What’s wrong with you?” That’s when he remembered…”Oh no…did Feli end up slapping you?”

“...I wasn’t even able to tell him.”

“Ach, mann!” He sat down on the chair across from him, and although his own bowl was prepared, he didn’t give it any attention. “Don’t feel so discouraged yet. Feli was just really busy after his performance, still is surely…not to mention there’s another show tonight.”

“Yeah…” Ludwig pushed his bowl aside, not sure if he would finish it. “I…just had a plan and now…I don’t know how to go through with it, I don’t know if now he’ll even have time, if I can manage it with all this attention and who knows what Keron could possibly do.”

“Want me to help you?”

Ludwig stared in shock, wondering…before quickly deciding, “no.”

“Oh, come on! I can be suave! I have made ladies faint!”

“That was one time and that lady was our aunt Juliane…who fainted because you were excessively bleeding after that rooster incident.”

“...we said we wouldn’t talk about that again.”

“Gilbert, point is, I think I can manage well myself.”

“No offense, Lud, but if you deal with it yourself…chances are the moment will never come exactly as you want it. You’ll keep pushing it for another time and before you know it, you’ll go back to the farm without having let Feliciano know at all.”

A realization that made Ludwig the more dreadful…not sure if he could go back to the lonely confines of that house without ever trying to make his feelings known. What could happen afterwards was up to destiny, but that he at least tried…would make his return fulfilling…that he did everything imaginable in this city, fall in love, admit it and live with whatever the response would be.

“Come, please, let me have a hand in it and I assure you…it will be epic.”

Ludwig sighed thinking…it could help to get some ideas…and if Gilbert suggested anything too wild…he could just deny it. “Fine.”

Gilbert clapped his hands in celebration, getting his phone, papers, pens, moving aside the muesli bowls, a couple of milk drops staining what would be the work area. “Okay-” he clipped his pen, “first of all, we have to do something about that.” He pointed to the blue and white checkered shirt Ludwig was wearing, plus the old jeans and the surely farm shoes.

“But, but…this is my usual.”

“Ludwig, you’re in Berlin, and for once, you have to show it! I have an idea on how we can absolutely wow Feliciano, show the city on you and make him drool…but you have to let me dress you…and do your hair.” Ludwig panicked, grasping his own hair as if worried that Gilbert would swipe it away. “Relax, we're not dying it a different color or even cutting it.” He then turned to pick up a papered map he had from the city to circle and mark around. “After the show today, the cast will meet up at a restaurant near the East Side Gallery.” He circled it that moment.

“And?”

“After I give you your makeup, you'll pick up Feliciano there.”

“With what car?”

“Oh, don't worry about that, I'll give you something way better.” That smirk and laugh only scared Ludwig.

“Then?”

“I have a route and place planned for you, but the rest is all up to you. If you have any hidden cards up your sleeve now would be the time to use them.”

And then…it shone in his head like a big neon light sign.

Julius Roma.

He took out his phone, going instantly to that chat, his last poem still there, knowing Feliciano was eagerly awaiting whatever would come next.

Was he ready to tell him who he was too? Out completely for him.

Yes…this was the ideal moment, taking a sigh and knowing he had to prepare another step. “I have just that card,” he smiled.

“Awesome! Come, let’s keep making this an amazing night for the both of you.”

And that’s how they spent the morning, going through every detail, every step, making sure Feliciano would be in all the planned places and for Ludwig to feel ready. When Gilbert had rolled everything up, meaning to start with this ‘makeover’, Ludwig had sighed and officially let it start.

Pirates Berlin, the place was called. Tacky, touristic, and surely not the kind of place any of them would hang out on the usual, but it did have a spectacular terrace view to the Spree river and the food was quite decent. The owners of the theater had chosen and rented it for the night for them as congratulations for how well the show was doing, so they used the offer to the max, drinking, dancing to the music and feasting on the food. They were all there after a successful second showing, new ratings raving on its masterpiece and the third and last now being completely booked. Feliciano, now being one of its main stars, should be drinking, eating and dancing on with the rest, but he instead sat by the terrace, glued to his phone. When he wasn’t looking at the screen, he was holding onto it as if for dear life.

‘I’m so sorry for not answering your message until now. I didn’t have a chance or time. But I really hope to see you tonight at the aftershow party! …Julius Roma messaged me…they said they’re going to meet me here tonight. It would mean a lot if you were with me to meet them.’ He had written that message about four hours ago…and still no response from Ludwig. He missed him at the showing today…actually, not seeing him at all since that first showing was hurting him much more than he expected. He should be excited! He was meeting Julius Roma! Julius Roma!

‘I believe it’s time to show you my face,
Which for long has been in your surround,
I’m here in Berlin,
To give you a meeting of only your dreams,
I’ll come to you there,
By the river, with all you are celebrating with,
I’ll show you my phone as proof,
It’s me, I’ll be there for you.’

He got new shivers each time he reread it. He trembled, he held tighter to his phone…he couldn’t believe this was actually going to happen.

“Feliciano!” Francis shouted, and in turn, Feliciano shouted as well, high pitched, scared, almost dropping his phone.

“Are you okay? You seem…really nervous,” Antonio questioned, not at all fazed by his heavy reaction.

“I-I’m fine,” he tried to get his bearings again, to fix the golden jacket he was wearing over his black tank top. “Just…waiting for somebody.”

“Ludwig?”

Feliciano gave a heavy sigh, realizing that yes…Ludwig was someone he was also waiting for. “Yes…no…um…” he turned to the entrance by the street, then to the river, to the sky, as if either Julius Roma or Ludwig could come from any of these places. “Just…waiting.”

“Well, they're late!” Francis was insulted for him.

“They didn't exactly give me a time.”

“They should have! Look at how dreadful they're making you! You're the star of my show, you have to be looking majestic at every corner now!”

“I think he should have a break,” Antonio felt like he had to add.

“I think whoever needs to arrive…needs to come now,” Erzsébet suddenly came in, her arm wrapped around Rodrich's waist while he had his around her shoulders.

“When making such a meeting, I would prioritize letting my partner know the time. I would be wary of whoever you're waiting for,” Roderich decided to make his comment as well.

“Roderich, it's really fine.”

“Rude I say!” Francis continued.

“Whose being rude, do I need to kick their asses?” Gilbert decided to join.

“Why are you all here?” Feliciano had to question, starting to feel surrounded.

“Yeah, is there some party here were missing?” And of course Sadiq had to come with Yekaterina, heavy in pregnancy, some non-alcoholic drink in her hand.

“Um…can I please…have a minute to myself?” He tried to ask in his usual kindly facade. Really, why was everyone here…except for Ludwig? He really needed to see him, he really wanted to be with him, it was starting to overwhelm the actual excitement of knowing that Julius Roma was coming any second now.

“I'm sorry, but you are meeting some unknown guy that none of us happen to know. Sketchy,” Liên came and joined as well.

“It's really fine, I can handle it.”

“We’ll beat him up if we have to!” Gael, along with Talim, already prepared fists to fight.

“Oh god, you're starting to get-”

The loud roar of an engine, almost like that of a lion, rang and seemed to cut all the noise from their chats. This was too close, near, it wasn't just any car going down the street, it was something heading towards them.

A rider on a motorcycle, the vehicle shining gorgeously with the lights of the restaurant, new, surely expensive, an artistic masterpiece that had instantly caught Feliciano's attention.

“Isn't that your-” Gilbert shushed Antonio, pressing his hand on his mouth and glaring intensely.

It parked right in front of the restaurant, the group's eyes glued to the ingenuity of the motorcycle before they could actually move to the rider. He had a dark helmet on, no one could recognize him…but oh that body! The dark jeans that fitted to some incredibly muscled legs, the dark boots, the black leather jacket, opened to a gray shirt and chest that had them drooling.

“Oh mio dio,” Feliciano couldn't help escape how handsome he thought this random stranger was…even if his head was covered.

“I'm going to faint,” Erzsébet whispered, who had even let go of her husband. He didn't mind…he was also busy staring.

“Quick, somebody try to get his number!” Gael suddenly interjected, much to Talim's insult.

“I will gladly sacrifice myself!” Francis offered, practically drooling, having many indecent thoughts about those legs.

“Wait…oh god, oh god! He's coming here!” Erszébet flailed, wide and probably hitting five heads in the process.

Indeed, the figure, after getting down from the motorcycle, began to make his way into the restaurant, a strong pace that only…turned them all on more. Then to their terrace, slow, practically suspenseful…and then he was actually heading to their group. Yekaterina had joined the women's and the more effeminate men's hard to contain squeal.

“Oh dio…mi stai prendendo in giro,” Feliciano was starting to realize as he just came closer and closer…to him. There was a held silence, frozen movements as this…really hot helmeted stranger just stood in front of Feliciano, who was of course nervous, not sure what to expect, holding tighter to his phone that he held to his chest.

“Are you…are you?” Feliciano nervously wondered aloud.

The stranger took his own phone from his pocket, scrolling through and then showing it to him…there was their chat…from his account.

Julius Roma…this was Julius Roma!

He was swayed, it was like he had lifted on a cloud, a smile, ready for a jump. Before he could say anything, Julius Roma raised his hand as a sign to stop whatever he meant to. Then, like a gallant knight, he offered one arm, while the other pointed outside to the motorcycle.

“Uh…you…want me to go with you…on the…motorcycle?” He nodded and Feliciano trembled, not sure if excitement, fear…or arousal. “I…I…I don't know…I'm still…waiting for somebody else.” There came a slight chuckle from underneath the helmet, but Julius Roma still pointed for them to go forward.

“Feliciano, go with that man!” Liên shouted behind him, even pushing him forward, the same insisting on everyone else's face, especially Gilbert's, which was one of the strong approvals Feliciano needed.

He then smirked to Liên, “I thought you said I should be careful with strange unknown men?”

“Fuck that! Look at that motorcycle! Look at that body! Let that man take your clothes off!”

Feliciano blushed, turning to a still covered man. He still didn't know who he was…but the rest of the night still had a chance to offer it. He had his phone, everyone knew who he went with…and they had the guy's license plate.

“Okay,” he finally accepted with a glowing smile, still shy, still nervous, taking his hand and…it was…familiar…extremely so. When had he held hands like this before? He tried to pinpoint as Julius Roma led him out of the restaurant, offered him his own helmet, in silence explaining how he was to get on…with him. Julius Roma got on first, quickly after Feliciano behind him. He felt slightly awkward deciding how he was going to hold on, until Julius Roma pointed to his waist. Oh…oh! Feliciano followed, wrapping his arms around him, laying his helmeted head on his back…and that's when it clicked.

He knew that hand, he knew that body, that walk…the phone…wasn't Gilbert working on a motorcycle? Didn't his grandfather die around the same time he had gotten that message? The poems coming when they needed to…especially after that March evening he met him.

He knew him…he knew who he was and all of a sudden…everything, absolutely everything made sense. He smiled, tears gathered on the edges of his eyes and he cuddled more and made his hold ever tighter.

He didn't have to wait for him any longer.

Julius ignited the engine, a rumbling that Feliciano didn't mind at all, actually, he found it exciting. Once Julius made sure they were ready, that Feliciano truly kept a tight hold, he turned the motorcycle out of the parking lot and into the busy street, dashing off faster than anything there, practically to join the lights that alighted the city. When they left, the group stared even at their disappearance, some with smirks, others jealous, and then there was Gilbert, who released a long sigh, “finally.” Nobody missed it.

“What are you talking about?” Erszèbet glared.

“I really think that was your motorcycle,” Antonio was sure.

That truly perked their interest.

“You know who that guy was then!” Sadiq pointed.

“Wait…this is your precious motorcycle, you wouldn't let anyone use it…unless it was…” And Roderich's eyes widened in shock when he realized…slightly disgusted that he was momentarily attracted to his younger cousin.

“Oh god, that was Ludwig,” Yekaterina worded it for all who still didn't understand.

“Ludwig!” They were aghast, impressed and questioning the reason behind it all.

“I feel like a pedophile,” Francis now took his signature handkerchief, disappointed, rubbing it over his head as if to erase everything he had suddenly thought of him.

“Relax, he did it to impress Feliciano. This is all part of his masterplan…and slightly mine, to confess his love to him.”

“Oohh!” They exalted, wondered, curious, looking to the road they had taken.

They truly wished the best outcome, looking forward to what would be the result in the morning.

Ludwig learned the route well.

He had been terrified at the beginning, more so when he had to get Feliciano to join him. But after he really got the hang of it, going across thinking of his own bike, of his tractor, the sights a beauty that wondered both the riders, it made him much smoother, letting himself be playful and be as free as Gilbert had suggested.

The whole of the east side gallery, up along the Spree, until they reached Alexanderplatz, going around its colors of the night before they continued down the main road, passing the Berliner Dom, Gilbert’s job, the German history museum, around the Brandenburg Gate, through Tiergarten, then down again by the usual streets alive in the action of the night, by pubs, clubs, grocery stores, playgrounds, schools, apartments, offices, under bridges, through Gleisdreieck, until finally they reached what was Ludwig’s end, a top corner in Viktoria park. He parked the motorcycle at a side street that ended just before a slope that went upwards. Gilbert had insisted on it, saying that it had the most romantic view of Berlin. He was really hoping so.

“Where are we going?” Feliciano asked once he got down himself, removing his own helmet and placing it by the motorcycle. He expected Julius Roma to do the same, but to his surprise, he kept it on as he signed to follow him up this slope. Ludwig was grateful to see it lonely, silent, perfect. A bench was coming up, a relief to Feliciano after this climb, but once he turned to the view, he gave a gasp and completely forgot about wanting to sit.

The city lights, the buildings, even the movements and the sounds of the city, united for a masterpiece of a view unlike any Feliciano had ever seen in Berlin. Breathtaken to a stillness, the presence around them magical. Ludwig couldn’t believe it had actually worked, turning to watch Feliciano, the lights shimmering in his eyes, somehow also on his skin and curls and he was just as ethereal as he always was to him. Minutes went on where enough was just looking at him, but eventually he would notice, turn to meet with him…still helmeted and not really a chance for Feliciano to actually look at an expression.

“Are you, um…going to take that off?” He asked rather shyly and Ludwig's hands began to shake, still so unsure and scared. “Ludwig, I know it’s you.”

Ludwig would have fainted that very moment if he wasn’t so determined to make this night what he intended it to be. “Ho-how-how?” He couldn't hold back any longer.

“Um, I recognized your phone, also I just knew it was you when I wrapped my arms around you…I remember well the hugs of those I care about the most,” he smiled proudly.

Ludwig sighed, beginning the removal of the helmet, familiar sights of his face until Feliciano was sure it was him. He smiled, finding Ludwig's new hairstyle, just its natural down without gel to hold it together. He looked so handsome, shining more his actual age of twenty-five. Yet Ludwig was still so shy, blazing in red, his hands going constantly through his hair as if it could somehow bring it back to its usual slick, trying to think, react and speak. “I, um…uh…hi.” Feliciano laughed and Ludwig wanted to fall down the cliff next to him.

After he contained himself again, Feliciano spoke, “is it…is it really you? Are you really…Julius Roma?” He was so hopeful, so alight…it was a push for Ludwig to admit, not wanting to disappoint any longer.

“Yes…yes…it’s been me… this entire time. I mean, I showed you the account, but I’m scared you won’t think it’s enough proof. So uh…if you need me to prove it to you somehow, just say it and I will do my best.” The dedication was bright in his blue eyes and Feliciano was swayed, breathless.

He had imagined this moment several times, an image occurring much more beautiful than he had thought. He knew exactly what to ask. “In April last year, you sent me two poems, both I made into songs on my channel…can you recite to me the second one?”

Ludwig chuckled…finding it too easy.

“I’m a horrible beast,
you’re a beauty in a feast.
I shouldn’t dare ask you to dance,
but I’m here. I’m here as true can be,
knowing your hand is the one that can free me.
I don’t know if this is the right waltz,
If I choose the correct suit,
Or if I will keep along with the steps.
I just hope you will sing through,
Smile and bring alive the night.”

Somehow in their minds they could hear the melody play, surely to echo into this reality that became the more gracious, made them the more shining to fit with the view, the lights, the stars. Feliciano was silenced, breathless, still trying hard to believe it, to react and show finally a truth. Ludwig felt bolded by it all. An arm and hand extended to caress under his chin, around his jaw, cradling the back of his head, his forehead laying on his.

“I love you.”

And just like that, the boldness went away at the heavy realization of what he had let himself so quickly say. Both suddenly had widened shock expressions, which Ludwig mistook for the worst. He let go, in a shaken panic that made Feliciano’s shock go into concern.

“Oh gott, I’m sorry! That was too much! Okay, no, I shouldn’t have done that! God, I lied to you! I lied to you this entire time!” He started shouting.

“Uh, Ludwig…” Feliciano tried to reach.

“Truth is, about two years ago, I was just looking for suggestions to help my tomato patch because I kept failing at something I thought would be very simple! I found yours and I ended up just staring at you the entire time, thinking you were the cutest thing I had ever seen!”

“...Ludwig…”

“And then I just kept watching all your other videos, because they were beautiful, you were beautiful! I found your instagram and yes, I found your onlyfans and I thought you were hot. I saw you sing, you gave me so many ideas and I just started writing to you and sending you donations and I didn’t think you would like them as much as you did!”

“Ludwig…”

“But I am…trash! I’m just some farmer nobody from some random ass village in Germany you’ve probably never heard off before we actually met. You probably think I stalked you here!”

“Ludwig…” at this point, Feliciano was beginning to roll his eyes.

“But I swear I didn’t! I really only came here because of this stupid deal I made with Gilbert! I wasn’t supposed to come here! I didn’t know you were here! I never thought I would actually meet you!”

“Ludwig.”

“I’m-I’m sorry I'm not some…rich city billionaire whose traveled the world. I'm not the prince of a small European country! I get it! And if you’re really not interested, I completely understand!”

“Ludwig!”

“I can really take you back, it's no problem-” he was turning away to do just that.

“Ludwig!”

“Feliciano, really, it's fine-”

But Feliciano had enough of words, of calls of his name that weren't working. Feliciano decided to respond with action, taking Ludwig by the arms, before he put a hand on his shoulder, the other to the back of his head to pull him to a meet of lips.

It was a burst of colors, of energy, of fire. Ludwig was so shocked that his eyes widened big enough to jump out. But then the softness settled, the taste, the movements, and Ludwig realized its beauty, calming, letting his eyes doze and his hands land on a tight hold of his hips, keeping him in that union that seemed to have fireworks blasting behind their eyelids. They danced in it, transported somewhere else that was not Berlin anymore, forgetting all and letting nothing else exist, except their kiss.

They broke, only a small millimeter apart, still for breaths to mingle, their hands still on each other, still caged in the euphoria of what they were feeling right now.

“Uh…okay, uh…I was not expecting that,” Ludwig chuckled and Feliciano laughed, somehow much more shining and beautiful than ever.

“Ludwig, I already told you once I love you too.”

Another burst of energy that almost made him want to fly, but of course…he always had to be his skeptical self. “But, you told me that in confidence, you didn’t know it was me and…” he sighed, taking a tighter hold of him, afraid that he would fly off any instant, “...aren’t you angry that I didn’t tell you there? That I waited this long to admit it?”

Feliciano sighed, but with a smile, an ever shine in his eyes that already didn’t seem to mind. “It would have been really nice to have known from the beginning…especially when I started having feelings for you instead…and then I was extremely confused over what I should do with Julius Roma. I felt…like I was betraying him, like I was betraying you…all while actually being in a relationship that the more I was with you and the more poems I got sent…the more I wanted to get out of. But then I knew it was you and…I had an entire amazing motorcycle ride to think about it. Honestly, knowing it’s you makes it so much better, so much true, makes me so happy, and-” this time he took the side of his face, wanting for their eyes to really be locked for this, that Ludwig understood clearly what he would say. “This was a great chance to meet Julius Roma without the screen, without the words, just you as you are. Ludwig, you never needed to be a prince or a billionaire. You already made me love you as a-” he stopped to laugh, “-farmer from Regensburg who is devoted to his land, his animals, his writing, his stories, his family. It’s admirable how you took care of your grandfather all by yourself for so long, because you cared for him so much, and I can understand that as someone who also loved their grandfather a lot, and then to come all the way here to make a bet with your brother…but part of me thinks that you really did it because…you wanted to be with him. You felt lonely, you missed having family, and you took whatever chance to spend time with it…and I’m glad you did, because it brought you here…and it brought you to me.” A sweet rubbing of his thumbs on his cheeks, thankful, beautiful and Ludwig could just continue to be swallowed by it. “I love you, I want to be with you.”

Ludwig was still finding a hard time understanding this to be real. But the feel of his hands on his face, his skin, his warmth, his true gaze. Ludwig couldn’t help the long kiss he laid on the palm of his hand, Feliciano’s other hand still caressing at his face, only swaying him to continue his kiss.

“Is this real?” It had to be a dream, definitely.

“Yes, yes, yes, yes it is!” Feliciano pleaded, grasping at him at whatever close reach his hands had of him. “I swear to you, this is happening, I love you, and you love me,” he smiled in such a shine that Ludwig knew he would have woken up from if it was in fact a dream.

Oh god…this was actually happening.

“Oh…great, that’s great, uh…what do we do now?”

Feliciano laughed loud enough to surely coat the park. “I don’t know-” his gaze turned sensual, provocative, Ludwig had to hold himself from drooling “-what do you want to do?”

“Uh…to be honest, I didn’t plan with this response. I thought I would be driving you home now.”

“Are you serious? I find out you’re Julius Roma, we finally confess to each other, and you just want to drive me back to Keron?” Feliciano was insulted.

“So, uh…you don’t want that…”

“Ludwig…I want to go with you, I want to spend the night with you.”

Ludwig was close to exploding in red that moment, and even if didn’t end up fuming out his ear or even making his scalp jump, he was short circuited, no word, no actions, just trying to deal with the single image that came to his head that could…very well happen.

“Um, uh, un, uh…now?”

“Uh…yes.”

“Oh, okay, um…okay, uh…I-I guess…Gilbert won’t mind, so yeah, let’s, uh, go.” By some miracle he was able to turn and start making his way back to the motorcycle, Feliciano trailing right behind him.

Oh god…oh gods…this was actually happening, he was taking him home to…what were they going to do? He continued to be so innocently clueless. He looked back, making sure Feliciano wore his helmet and that he took the appropriate seat behind him. Arms wrapped around him, cuddling, surely a smile under that made Ludwig smile and blush himself. Okay…deep breath, bring back his bearings, he had to ride them both to safety. It wasn’t that far from there to Gilbert’s apartment, a matter of minutes surely. The engine roared majestically to life, Ludwig found his confidence with it and was quickly able to drive them out of there, to the city, to his home…now together as lovers. Somehow knowing that made the ride much more euphoric, Neuköln suddenly the most astonishing place in Berlin. Before they knew it, they were right before Gilbert’s apartment building. Feliciano helped Ludwig to lock the motorcycle in the inner courtyard as Gilbert had explained to him, then taking their things and heading up the staircase to the familiar door. For some reason, neither minded the climb, heading inside still energized. The apartment was dark, no trace of anyone there. Ludwig checked his phone, a message from Gilbert explaining that he would be staying the night at Antonio’s. Okay, so…Feliciano and him had the apartment for themselves. He looked up to him, who was just taking off his shoes, to leave them as he knew in the hall, pacing, dusting his hands, smiling up at Ludwig, somehow ready…but Ludwig didn’t know how to move from there.

“Uh…” he walked up to him, even giving his head a kiss, Feliciano leaned and smiled at it eagerly. “You-you can sleep in the living room, or-or perhaps Gilbert’s bed. If anything I can get his mattress to my room.” He was still so clueless, yet red and shaking.

Feliciano, ever so understanding yet daring, only raised an eyebrow. “I don’t want any of those places.”

“Uh…where do you want to then?”

“...your bed.” That smirk, that caress of his fingers on his face, Ludwig swore he would fall dead to the ground that instant.

“Uh, uh, um, ye-yeah, sure, okay, okay, um…can I take a shower first? You can go right after me.”

Feliciano giggled, placing a kiss on his nose, “sure.”

Ludwig turned, grabbed his pajamas and somehow managed to go through his normal nightly shower, although his mind was still in some plain trying to make sense of what had happened, that Feliciano loved him like he did him, that he was staying the night with him…in his bed. How could he possibly sleep next to him? Oh god, what if he got a boner and he caught it? Oh great, he’s already fucking this up in the first few hours. He’s a brave man! Strong, tall, his mere gaze can make people quiver. He stood in front of the mirror telling himself. Black shirt on, shorts, and a sigh, he headed out to his room, Feliciano waiting patiently for him to finish before he went past him, a smile and then he was in the bathroom, the shower running and Ludwig had to slap his head out of the naked thoughts. Go to bed, scroll through his phone as any usual night. He had actually gotten quite comfortable, not even noticing as the water stopped, the slow footsteps that came and entered his room.

“Ludwig, I didn’t know I was staying here the night, so…I didn’t bring any clothes.”

“And?” Ludwig raised his eyes to see him covered still with a towel…just a towel. Breathe, breathe…breathe!

“Can I sleep like this?” And he let it drop down his body in an ease that was like the curtains of a theater.

Breathe, breathe, breathe, goddammit breathe.

The small rays of light from the outside hit him like a spectacle. It was indeed a whole different experience to see him naked in person. For one, he could see all the imperfections that he surely edited out from the process. He was slightly fuller, but it only made his form the more enchanting, soft and even more tempting to grab and let his teeth sink in. He would still be considered thin, small, but now more than ever Ludwig wanted to wrap his arms around that delectable waist…but he couldn’t move, couldn’t even think of anything else other than ‘breathe, breathe, breathe, breathe.’ It was like his holy apparition had stunned his brain to nothing.

“Hm?” Feliciano still wondered, just starting to feel cold, rubbing his arms and it was the right awake and shake, Ludwig worrying he could catch a cold.

“Yea-yeah, yes, please uh…come,” he managed even in a stutter, pulling part of the cover out by the window so Feliciano knew he could make his space there.

With a smirk, Feliciano went, but instead of making his whole way over Ludwig, he instead made his stop at his lap, sitting on him, hands resting on his shoulders, his head laying upon his with a grand seductive smile that made Ludwig question how he was able to lock his phone and place it on the bedside table without letting it smash to the ground in his stupefaction.

“Ludwig…do you have any idea what we’re going to do now?” He continued that smile while he let fingers trace at his chest.

“Uh…sleep.”

Feliciano wondered if Ludwig could really be that dense about this…he sighed, knowing he had to be more direct and punctual as Ludwig wanted everything. As he made himself more comfortable on him, wrapping his lithe arms around him, he noticed Ludwig’s own hardness, sparing it a quick grin before he knew he had to be serious. “Ludwig…I want to have sex with you.”

Ludwig gulped, gripping harsh on the blankets and Feliciano could feel him harden more. But Ludwig looked so…unsure, sweating, redding to a point that Feliciano worried he was getting sick.

“Um…only if you want to though,” Feliciano even dropped his hands, suddenly nervous and embarrassed. “Maybe you want to wait. It is pretty sudden and maybe-”

“No!” Ludwig suddenly took a hold of his arms, rough, but then suddenly soft, caressing, letting Feliciano fall back to his seductive ease. “I-I-I…want you and yes, I would love to and it’s…the sort of thing I dreamed about but…I’ve just…never done it before.”

And Feliciano understood, his eyes only momentarily widened. “Really?”

“Um…I really didn’t know a lot of gay people in my village. I mean, I know more or less what we have to do, but I’m just…worried I’ll disappoint you.” Ludwig looked down, now taking Feliciano’s hands to focus, worried for what his next response would be.

Feliciano smiled, “is that really why you’re so nervous?” He found it the more adorable.

“Ye-yes.”

Feliciano smirked, his hands taking the sides of his face, making sure they looked into one another, intimate. “I understand. I know it can be a little scary, you don’t want to ruin anything and you’re worried I won’t enjoy it. But I love you, Ludwig. We can learn to make love together, and no matter what you do tonight, it won’t change how I feel.”

“I…I want to be able to pleasure you.”

“And you will.” Suddenly he laughed, “I have to admit, the pictures and videos I took for my onlyfans after you started writing to me, were done with you in mind…it was you who I thought about whenever I looked into the camera and you who I would imagine hands and lips going down on me.”

Ludwig was about ready to combust that moment.

“I really doubt you can disappoint me.”

Ludwig sighed, “if you say so, but…if I do, I’m…really sorry and I swear I will do my best to-”

Feliciano put a gentle finger to his lips. “How about I take control for now? And then when you feel like you can…don’t hesitate,” and he winked Ludwig into a stupor.

Feliciano fell on him to kiss, passionate, igniting and Ludwig instantly knew to finally have the wrap of his arms around him. Soft, heavenly and like a treasure. They let their sway be the intertwine of their lips, of their tongues, until suddenly Feliciano sat up again, a smirk with an idea, before he went and took Ludwig’s neck, licking, nipping and biting and Ludwig was already rolling his eyes and accepting the moans that came out from his mouth. Still being able to have control of his neck, Feliciano began removing his shirt and he only stopped his taking of the area so Ludwig could take off the whole thing. Feliciano instantly threaded his hands and fingers across that sculpted chest and stomach, playing with his nipples and rubbing himself more against him. He removed from the kisses on his neck, to his lips, to then begin a trail down, down, and down, until he was at the hem of Ludwig’s shorts…already pulling at them. Ludwig’s eyes widened large, uncaring to Feliciano, who was busy pulling and laying countless kisses on his hips. Eventually Ludwig reacted and helped Feliciano to get rid of them, as soon as his penis was free, it was caught in Feliciano’s incredible grasp. Ludwig groaned and was already breathless at his tightened grip, up and down, up and down, looking at it already so taken, so hungry. Feliciano took him into his mouth, sucking, licking, his grip going along with the bobbing of his head. It was like he was sucking the very energy out of Ludwig, who gave up to just laying back, letting this euphoria, this height that made him swear he was seeing some kind of heaven on the ceiling. He gripped harshly on the sheets each time Feliciano licked on that specific part of his head, not wanting to thrust, not wanting to hurt him, but oh how badly he wanted. He looked down to see if he was doing all right, and met with the shining gold of his eyes and it only made him moan louder.

Releasing with a delightful pop, but still letting hands grip and move over him, he joined his gaze with a smirk. “Something wrong?”

“N-no-no…just-uh…”

“Ludwig, I told you, you can take control whenever you want.”

“I don’t want to hurt you.”

“Ludwig, you aren’t going to. If there’s something I don’t like, I will stop. Now…just enjoy me as you’ve always wanted to.” With a last wink he took his penis back into his mouth to continue the motions from before, going deeper, his own moans vibrating across his member and hips and making it all the more a prestige. Ludwig couldn’t take it any longer, letting his sounds resonate and fill the room, hands going down and landing on Feliciano’s head to caress, feel those incredibly soft locks, rub at his head…and push down. He waited for some sort of complain, but he could feel Feliciano smiling…and trying to go deeper on him which only made him roll his eyes to his back and then initiate the first of his thrusting. One of Feliciano’s hands now fondling on his balls, the other threading and scratching at his chest, Ludwig used the position to ground his feet and intensify the way he moved Feliciano’s mouth on him.

“Ah, gott!” He shouted as he loved the feel of wetness, the tongue, the touches, the breaths, that he could move his head exactly as he wanted and Feliciano responded with more pleasure.

And then suddenly, Feliciano had popped himself out again, louder this time as he suddenly kneeled up.

It had been so ethereal, so heightening, close to a climax and then it was abruptly gone. Ludwig had even coughed trying to understand. “Wha-wha-what happened? Are you okay?”

“I am, I am, don’t worry, I just…” that beautiful smirk, those eyes on him shining like the sun in this darkness. He crawled to him, until his own head was above his, his hips with him, his penis now resting comfortably on the crook of Feliciano’s ass, Feliciano giving testing rubs, biting his lips and not wanting to completely submerged himself in clouded pleasure when there were still things that needed to be done. “I want to ride you.”

Such dedication and perseverance that had Ludwig stranded in his spot, still hardening on despite how suddenly there were calls and warnings in his head that needed to be headed to. “Feliciano, that’s hot and all, but again, I didn’t expect for this to happen.” There was momentaril seriousness on Feliciano’s face. “So-so, I-I don’t have any lube or condoms or-” Feliciano went straight to the cabinet in the deskside table, pulling it open, a bottle of lube rolling down, over an incredible amount of condom packets. “What?” Ludwig was genuinely surprised. “I swear! I didn’t put those in there!”

“Gilbert talks about how he’s always ready for this kind of thing. I was kind of expecting that he would leave something for his own brother.”

Ludwig didn’t know if to be embarrassed, relieved or even prideful for his brother.

“Now-” Feliciano went and reached for the bottle and took one of the packets, “-can I get us ready?”

Ludwig nodded, slowly growing a confident smile, comfortable, letting his hands land and grip on Feliciano’s thighs while he busied with opening and putting the just amount of lube on his fingers. He leaned forward, Ludwig now following how his hand reached behind him…and he began to finger himself, with the moans, the thrusts and enchant in his eyes that was there…for him, only him. Oh…this was nothing like the pictures, the videos, or whatever he had on his onlyfans. This was beautifully real, beyond whatever his mind could conjure, beyond whatever he could expect with Feliciano…even after meeting him.

He had stopped, considering himself ready, removing, knowing he had to prepare something else, much more grandiose and what he really wanted to bring them to unimaginable ecstasy. He took the condom package, ripped it open with his mouth in what Ludwig thought was probably one of the hottest things he had ever seen him do. He was more than readily hard when Feliciano did the honor of covering Ludwig. His hands on his shoulder, a weight, a lift…he was to take him in. Feliciano made sure their eyes were frozen on one another, leaned shortly for a chaste kiss, and then he began with the intrusion. Difficult at first, the girth much more than he expected, a slight pain as he tried to press him in. Ludwig on the other hand, was already hit with a large expanse of ecstasy, freezing him, yet his hands tightening to the grasp he had of his thighs. Feliciano still had grimaces of pain and thorn, and Ludwig was not going to make it worse for him…even at just the tip and top it felt heavenly.

Slowly, with moans, Feliciano continued downward, with every millimeter a new surge of lightning that heightened everything the more, made Ludwig moan out along with Feliciano, until finally he was completely sheathed in him. A relief, a fullness unlike anything Feliciano had ever felt, an engross that was much more than whatever Ludwig had ever imagined. Indeed the entire room had now become a heaven, shining lights even in this night's darkness.

Hands grounding on Ludwig’s chest, Feliciano began his first raise, before he very deliciously dropped down again in the first thrust. It was already too much for Ludwig, who wondered how he was supposed to last, how he was supposed to elongate this. It was just so wonderful and he couldn’t imagine ending it. But he didn’t need to focus on that, he needed to focus on how Feliciano moved on him, up and down, moaning high, his rear practically dancing for him, the harsh land of it on him adding to the wonder. He let his hands explore his legs, his hips, his ass, so soft, sculptured like an ancient statue, making sure that his caresses added along and pleased Feliciano more in his raises.

He moved harder, intense, his moans their own melody. Ludwig began to meet them, moving his own hips upward in addition to the rhythm, the bed aiding along and he was glad that Gilbert was not there and he could release it all as he wanted. Yes…as he wanted.

“Ludwig, I told you, you can take control whenever you want.” Feliciano had said when they started, and it was the ignite that got a new fire raging through Ludwig that wanted an instant qualm. He suddenly sat up, his own thrusts becoming more erratic, but powerful, to the point that Feliciano was finding it difficult to meet with his own movements, but in the end he let himself be swayed, arched and shouting higher to the ceiling as Ludwig pistoned up at him. Ludwig wrapped one arm around his chest, trying to pull him to his own chest while his other arm and hand stayed on the bed as grounding to help keep his fastened and powerful thrusts.

He needed more, way more. In a heartbeat, Feliciano was now on the bed, finding for a moment relief and comfort from the energy he had used, but it was gone quick as Ludwig was now on top of him and instantly began plunging into him in rapid fire. Feliciano now screamed, his arms wrapped around his shoulders, his legs around his waist, using his heel to welcome these beast movements, pushing and loving how Ludwig still had it in him to intensify and continue.

“Ah, Ludwig, Ludwig, Ludwig!” He moaned out and Ludwig couldn’t help the smirk, the happiness, the realization, the pleasure all around him, wrapped on him in every possible way that was a gift, one he wanted to stay present in for as long as possible. But of course…this was his first time. This was becoming too much of a dream, of fantasies unfathomable and a brink was coming. Ludwig took a grip of Feliciano’s waist, pushing him much more deliciously towards him, before he groaned out, stopping his thrusts to focus instead on the release that came. Feliciano held him tight for it, kissing his head, his hands gripping hard on his hair, which only continued to make it a pleasure, as he emptied himself and whatever energy began to flow down and leave him breathing hard and trying to regain some sense of power to himself to not completely suffocate Feliciano with his pressure on him.

Trying to regain some more breath, he released himself from the lay he had on Feliciano’s shoulder and neck and ended with staring into his glazed golden eyes, breathing as hard as he was, trying to land back in the moment. And Feliciano smiled and giggled, flourishing and enough to paint back the day. Ludwig smiled himself, taken by the beauty for himself, but then it broke when he realized that Feliciano…didn’t cum. “Oh god, no, I’m so sorry! I should have done something to help you too, I-”

Feliciano instantly shushed him by placing his fingers on his lips. “Ludwig,” still so breathless, even if the seduction that was alive in his eyes and grin, “this was your first time. This was about you. I don’t care, I still-” his grin grew ever wider, “-enjoyed it so much. You were so amazing and wonderful and I really…cannot wait to keep doing this with you.”

Was it possible to cum again as flaccid as he was turning? At least he could redden to make it obvious even in this darkness, which only made Feliciano laugh.

“I…” Ludwig took his hand and brought it to his lips to give a quick kiss, “promise to make you cum next time.”

Feliciano smiled, gentile, taken by how Ludwig’s blue eyes shone so uniquely, so gallant. “I’ll take your word.”

“I’ll try not to fail and uh…I know we just showered but…can we go wash up?”

“Of course, amore.”

Ludwig was frozen in enchantment.

With loud laughs, Feliciano pulled him out from the bed and took them to the shower, sharing some passionate embraces and kisses as they washed before they went back to bed, cuddling, comfortable, settling into sleep, deep and with nothing to break that peace.

Chapter Text

Ludwig couldn’t remember the last time he had woken up so late…late and not at all minding it, actually settling in it, no rush or worries to head out, no pressure. He had a delightful scent with him, had a soft and sculpted body, curls and the occasional lips on his chest and arms. At first, he thought this his usual dreams, the usual impossibilities that could never be here in his actual bed. But as his eyes fluttered open to the soon afternoon sunlight, he looked down to still see Feliciano cuddled well against him, asleep. His breaths on his skin, alive and moving, present…

This…was real.

Memories of the night before came and…that had happened. He had sex. He had sex with Feliciano Valenti. He…felt blessed, gifted, he couldn’t close his eyes again, couldn’t help but stare, and it was just the feeling for Feliciano to flutter his own eyes open, widened at the impressive pale chest, before going up to meet a face of heroes, shining blue eyes and blond hair. He blushed, like a shy child looking away with a small chuckle.

“What?” Ludwig questioned with his own smile.

“It’s just so nice to be waking up next to you.” Feliciano cuddled his face more into his chest, twisting his legs with his, locking themselves in this embrace, never meant to let go. Ludwig wrapped his arms around him, pulling him more, his own face in his hair, taking more of the scent, kissing and letting his smile be coated by brown locks.

“I love you,” Ludwig whispered.

“And I love you too,” Feliciano smiled, but then suddenly he was raising himself up, now locking eyes with Ludwig, over him, then growing a rather sly grin. “And you know what I would love to do now?” It only took a mere look to their hardening members.

Ludwig smirked, not bothering to complain about how they just woke up. Maybe they needed to wash up first, maybe some breakfast. No. Ludwig was just as eager, instantly opening up the drawer to pick up a new condom package and the lube. Ludwig prepared him this time, as Feliciano moved against him, devouring each other’s lips and tongues, moans escaping, only making them much more desperate for a deeper union.

Once Feliciano saw he was widened enough and Ludwig was wearing the condom completely, he sat up and got himself ready to take his penis into him, ready to ride him well along as he did the night before, but Ludwig had other plans. After all, he had made a promise and he was determined to make it true and prove how much he was capable of showing love. He grabbed and instantly had him on his back, instantly taking his plunge, his control, having him and Feliciano adore it, already rolling his eyes and moaning out loud. This time, Ludwig paced quicker, but direct unto the spot he had quickly learned made Feliciano moan the loudest, and in that spot he went hard, biting at Feliciano’s neck, grabbing his own cock from time to time to make sure he was truly experiencing this at his same heights. The bed was now going hard against the wall and both swore the room was shaking, but it didn’t matter, not when they were this entranced and lost in their lust.

”Ah, dio, dio, Ludwig!” Feliciano shouted, hands now gripping harshly on his back, the excitement of scratching only intensifying Ludwig’s thrusts, smirking at this wonder, knowing he was close.

And then Feliciano gave a howl, a definitive end, he had cum and the absolute wonder of it, the ethereal glow on his face, plus the tightening around his member, made Ludwig finish himself, both tumbling into each other, arms wrapped around the other, finding the chance to breathe, to calm, find their words and their grounding after this flight they had taken. When that peace was found, they smiled at one another, a glory like this new shining blue, hot and clear day.

A sudden bang ruined it all, panic easily swept across them.

“Lud! Are you here? If you are, well, come out and tell me how it went! Don’t worry, I have some cake to make you feel better!” They heard as surely Gilbert went to the kitchen to make the preparations.

“Oh no,” Ludwig panicked. “I-I thought we would have more time.”

“What do we do?” Feliciano whispered, knowing to be cautious with his voice…and even his movements…this apartment was especially creaky.

“Um…” Ludwig looked down for ideas, noticing the stains of white and the sweat on both of them. They looked awfully disheveled and despite how open his brother was, this was not how he wanted him to catch him. “Ye-yeah, I’m here!” He shouted back, beginning to stand from the bed, getting some clothes, motioning Feliciano to do the same, trying that his noise went above whatever Feliciano did. “I…I’m going to take a shower first!” Ludwig motioned Feliciano to follow him out, making sure Gilbert was still too busy in the kitchen, knowing the coast was clear and trying to make their easy steps to the bathroom.

“Okay!” Gilbert shouted back, with the clang of plates and utensils.

They both shared the shower as they did the night before, although this time, careful, only daring quick kisses and feathers of touches as they tried to minimize however they could their sounds.

“I’m going to distract him. Try to head out while I keep his attention. I’ll text you later, okay?”

Feliciano nodded, finishing his drying while Ludwig just finished putting on his shorts and T-shirt. “Hi,” he made his welcome to Gilbert, using his body to cover whatever view he could have of the hall.

Gilbert was whistling as he placed some napkins next to the very…fine porcelain dishware he had used to decorate the table.

“Oh god, this is from the Prussian ones our great grandmother left,” Ludwig noticed, widened. Gilbert only used those for extremely special occasions. There was also a vase with flowers!

“Well, you know, you had a pretty big night. I don’t know what happened and you didn’t text or call me. But no matter what did, I thought it be best to talk about it while having cake in the fanciest setting I could prepare.” And here he brought out the bag with surely all the pieces.

Ludwig had begun to tap on the side of the door, hoping to cover any sounds Feliciano could make. Gilbert was too busy taking out and placing them in a neatly fashion on the center plate. “I got some Käsekuchen, Kirschkuchen mit Streusel, Apfelkuchen, Pflaumenkuchen-" he went on mentioning and pointing while Ludwig just nodded, looking down the hall now. Feliciano was just heading out of the bathroom, changed, he had his phone, a small backpack and was only trying to get his shoes on.

Good, good, they were doing good. Now was the worst time for Gilbert to turn his direction. “Don’t worry, Ludwig! We can deal with this together! And if you don’t want this to be some…pity party, we can make it a…one more month before you have to leave…tea party!”

“What?” Feliciano practically shouted, falling to his sides as he lost his balance.

“Huh?” Gilbert recognized and noticed and Ludwig froze, not sure how to explain this. “Whose-”

“It-It’s uh, it’s-it’s-”

“You’re leaving in a month!” Feliciano didn’t care anymore, coming close, a saddening in his eyes that distracted Ludwig from his covering of the hall, clear for Gilbert to see.

“Feliciano… you’re here-” And that’s when he noticed…his mind working the most difficult gears to see…how disheveled Ludwig looked, how he avoided looking him in the eyes, the hickeys…the ones on Feliciano as well, the glow, knowing they had been alone the whole night, knowing Ludwig confessed. They had… “...oh.” Was all he could really utter at first, too dumbfounded to give a proper response. What sort of response should he give to his younger brother after he had sex for the first time? “Uh…we have more than enough cake…you’re definitely welcome to join…this can be a…congratulations on the sex tea party!” He tried to exalt…part of him was actually happy. If they did it, it meant that the night was a complete success.

“Hi, Gilbert…that’s very nice of you, but I-” and Feliciano looked down to his phone…with several messages from Keron. It broke Ludwig to see him sadden more, knowing something was crashing in him. “I…have to go back and-” he looked up to Ludwig, lost, yet loving and still wanting to keep holding him, kissing him and expressing how much he loved him. He sighed, “deal with the fact that I cheated on my boyfriend with a guy whose…leaving.”

He began making his way to the door, but Ludwig refused to leave it like that, going over, “wait!” He had to let him know, realizing that it was an opportune time, perhaps Feliciano could use it to his advantage, perhaps it worked best, but overall, he didn’t want Feliciano leaving with any kind of guilt for what they had done the night before. “Before you leave, I need you to take a look at this.” Ludwig took out his phone and went to the specific file he had made, with the pictures, videos and recordings from when he had caught Keron with his side piece. He was a little hesitant as he handed it over, not sure what kind of reaction to expect.

Feliciano was concentrated as he saw them, analyzing, looking and then hearing at every detail, pensive as he finished each file, fingers occasionally tapping each other.

“He has been cheating on you for much longer. You don’t ever need to excuse yourself for him,” Ludwig said as Feliciano locked his phone and gave it back. “Are…you okay?” He wondered with a tremble.

“Honestly…thank you so much, Ludwig. Part of me…was kind of expecting this,” he sighed, understanding more and more how awful this relationship was…and how he should really end it. “Can you send them to my phone please, and if it’s possible, can you also send them to my brother? Gilbert has his number.”

Gilbert walked and stood by the kitchen door, giving a thumbs up to make him know that it will be done.

“Of course…what are you going to do now?”

“Something I should have done a long time ago.”

“Are you breaking up with him?” Gilbert couldn’t contain himself.

Feliciano sighed, more scared than annoyed, “yes…I’m going to do it.”

Ludwig opened the door for him, giving him the space to head to the staircase hall, slow, fearsome, but still determined to continue.

“If anything, absolutely anything, send me a text or give me a call.”

“Yes…I will,” he sighed.

“And…about me leaving. We can talk about it later, but…just know that I have no intention to leave…you.” Ludwig wanted to already promise.

It was enough to bring back Feliciano’s adoring smile, bringing a hand to caress at his cheek. “When I break up with him, can I be together with you then?”

Ludwig wanted to explode, taking that hand to place a kiss on, already accepting. “Yes.”

And that was the push that made Feliciano nod, giving him an edge of a skip as he made his way down the stairs, Ludwig staying by the door until he heard the main entrance door shut with his exit. Both the brothers let themselves this blissful morning silence, Ludwig could smile, Gilbert could smirk all he wanted, but of course…he was incredibly curious and couldn’t help to end this with his very noisy question.

“Sooo…how was it?”

Ludwig sighed, it seemed he couldn't escape from this.

“Come, let’s have some cake as celebration then. I want all the details!”

He was definitely not going to give him all the details.

Ludwig didn’t have to wait that long for a response from Feliciano.

Gilbert and him had already been stuffed with enough cake to ruin their appetite for surely lunch and dinner.It meant that Ludwig settled on some mediocre bread roll that he spread butter on while changing glances between his laptop screen and phone, still waiting for any kind of reply.

It came in a call.

“Hallo.”

“Can you come pick me up, please?” He could practically feel Feliciano shivering through the call.

“Of course.”

“And uh…can you tell Gilbert to come too…and if uh…he can bring a car…or maybe even a van.”

Ludwig raised an eye, opening his mouth to question, but deciding against it. He would just do as he asked and make his questions once he was there with him. “Give us thirty minutes while we figure everything out.”

“Okay,” was his shaky farewell.

“Gilbert!” He had called him, meaning to do everything as quick as possible.

To their immense luck, there was a minivan they could borrow from Gilbert’s job. They wasted some time in trying to get to the museum all the way in Mitte, but at least it was a short drive from there to Moabit. Gilbert had to look for parking and suggested that Ludwig got down and met up with Feliciano first. He hurried, not daring to look back, only determined to find him, feeling a dreading fear over how he would.

Feliciano was sitting on some cement block surely in front of Keron’s building, kneeling forward, shivering and already Ludwig’s heart broke at the sight. “Feliciano!” He called and bolted forward the last steps to him. He then noticed how some things were spread haphazardly beside him. Clothes, knick knacks, some electronics, all new, taken care of, although some looked broken with whatever fall brought them here. Ludwig didn’t bother on them longer and instead took Feliciano’s shoulder, wanting to face him, give him comfort, but Feliciano refused to, especially forceful on keeping one hand on his left eye.

“Feliciano, are you okay?”

“Yea-yeah, I just need help getting my stuff.”

“What happened?”

“I told Keron I slept with you and then broke up with him.”

“Did he do anything to you?” He doubted he took it that easily.

“He-he just kicked me out, but I was expecting that.” The way he kept trembling made Ludwig sure there was more to it.

“Do you still have anything inside?”

“Ye-yeah. Some he has thrown over and he refuses to let me back in. I-I thought maybe you could go in and get the rest of my stuff. I-I don’t know if he’ll do something to you, but you’re strong and-” while he was distracted telling him this, Ludwig went ahead and took the arm that was covering his eye…to find a large and heavy bruise, dark purple, the eye swollen to the point that Feliciano kept it shut.

Ludwig didn’t need another word. He gave a kiss to the bruise, caressing his face sweetly…before he went straight to the main entrance of the building.

“Ludwig…” Feliciano tried to meekly call him, but Ludwig ignored it.

Ludwig guessed Feliciano had left the door open, so he made his way up the stairs, knowing well from past conversations which floor to go to. Calmly, with all the gentlemen flare his grandfather and mother had taught him to show, he rang and knocked on the door. Keron answered after mere seconds, flaring, burning, seeing Ludwig only igniting it the more.

“It’s you. What? You here to get your whore’s-” he was met with an intense punch that Ludwig swore had knocked out teeth. Keron couldn’t take it, he stumbled, he tried to deal with the blood that was already oozing down his nose and mouth, while Ludwig stood as impenetrable as ever, shrugging it off and simply making his way into the apartment. At least Keron had been somewhat decent enough to leave all of Feliciano’s stuff in a corner, by what Ludwig assumed was his room. He began getting as much as he could, a big heap in his arms. It seemed he would have to do two more trips, but he was determined and he really didn’t mind hurting Keron more.

When Ludwig had come down with his first load, Gilbert was with Feliciano, checking the eye, utter hurt and break in his eyes. “We’ll have to get some ice and maybe even get a doctor to look at it.”

Feliciano had begun to cry. “No, no, no, no, please, Feliciano. Don’t worry, it’s going to be all right.”

“Start taking some things to the van,” Ludwig told Gilbert, placing the items on the ground for them to take, hurrying back inside for the second round.

“Ludwig…” Feliciano called again.

“Let him deal with this, Feli. Come with me, let’s try to hurry,” Gilbert led him away.

Keron was still dizzy, still trying to stand, when Ludwig just came in that second time, he shouted and was ready to attack. Ludwig had him down with a mere trip, not bothering on him as he focused on picking the second round of things. Down he went, meeting Feliciano and Gilbert ready to pick the things he had.

“Ludwig, please, it’s fine, you don’t have to keep going up and down, I’m worried he’ll-”

Ludwig gave the things to Gilbert, taking Feliciano’s face in his hands, cradling, glad that Gilbert put some simple bandages on the wound while they dealt with going to the hospital for it. “Feliciano, I’m only missing a couple of things. I’m not going to leave any of your stuff behind. I intend this to be the last time you’re ever here and I don’t want you missing a single thing.”

“But-”

“No. Don’t worry, I can do this for you.” He kissed his head so sweetly and Feliciano was falling evermore. “Do you have a place to stay?”

“No…not really…”

“Gilbert, can he-”

“Bro, you don’t even have to ask.”

“Good, now let me go up one last time.” And off he went, just the last, Keron still lazing on the ground trying to find some sense, power, some unhurt part that could go against what Ludwig was doing. He was honestly expecting some kind of force in his last trajectory, but he managed to get it all, taking peeks around the apartment to make sure he had everything that could belong to Feliciano before making his last descent. Gilbert and Feliciano were there ready to take the very last items.

“That’s everything, we can go now,” Ludwig decided.

He was just about to close the main entrance door when he heard the rushing footsteps coming down. Keron bursted out, bruised and bloodied still, his dark eyes large and vengeful. Feliciano cowered behind Ludwig fearing the absolute worst.

“You! How dare you! Just barging in like that!” He was as ferocious as a dangerous animal.

“I had to take Feliciano’s stuff,” Ludwig answered with utter calm…the same tone he used when dealing with bulls or one of the more aggressive animals back in his farm.

“You had no right!”

“It’s Feliciano’s stuff…”

“I could very well call the police!”

“We could too, to be honest,” Ludwig inferred to the bruise Feliciano got.

“Aren’t you a smartass? Huh? You think you’re some victorious hero just because you managed to get Feliciano laid. Newsflash, he’s a whore! He’s willing to sleep with anyone and surely had a bunch of others in our relationship before you came along!”

Ludwig flared, but Feliciano began to rise up, “that’s not true! I only ever slept with you and Ludwig!”

“Shut your fucking slut mouth!”

Ludwig was about ready to give him another punch, but Feliciano held his arm.

“You have whole pages of being a slut! You can’t convince me you weren’t answering to all the fucking perverts who wanted your ass as soon as they handed you money!”

“I only ever did that page because you were insisting!”

…and that was news, a widened reaction to all who were hearing this conversation.

“I…I…” Keron tried to find any of the excuses he had before…something that could actually work in front of Gilbert and Ludwig…and some who began to peek and overhear at surely the drama.

“From the beginning it felt demeaning! It was not at all the path I wanted to take, but it was your first suggestion! One you kept pushing on me! And because I was such a fool for you, I accepted it! But now I see that it was a trick to try and get me to look more bad in the eyes of the court deciding the fate of my family’s farm!” Feliciano finally pointed and Keron was caught. “But I used it to my advantage! I have more than enough money saved up to get my family the lawyers they need! I met Ludwig! Who, by the way, actually made me orgasm unlike you ever did!” Felicaino was somehow very proud at that last statement, which had Ludwig reddening to the point he swore he would faint from it, while Gilbert hollered and really wanted to high five his brother on that.

After the initial shock, Keron recoiled in more anger, but Feliciano somehow felt brave in the face of it…partly because he was still holding to Ludwig…and had him in front…just in case.

“Try all you want, but I will make sure the Valenti have not a single patch of dirt from that rotting and decrepit farm,” Keron threatened, but yet not daring to come closer.

“Oh trust me, I will try! That farm belongs to my mother! It will be my mother’s, it will be Valenti, and I will make sure you don’t ever come across any of us again!” Was the last shout of determination before he was making Ludwig, along with Gilbert, turn and make the path to the parked van over by the side of the street.

Keron shouted on, insults and threats that by now seemed so weak and like they would not offer any piece of promise. He felt angered at their continued ignorance, going as far as chasing after them, grabbing at Ludwig’s shoulder even and he had enough.

Ludwig turned in an instant and punched him yet again, with a powerful force that surely looked like Keron was flying. Loud gasps from all around, some unbeknown passerby offering their help to him and glaring at Ludwig.

“Ludwig, it’s okay, please, stop, we can go,” Feliciano still insisted as kindly as ever.

“Ja, ja, I know, this is the last one, I promise,” he managed to smile proudly despite.

“If you keep beating him like that, he’s really going to call the police,” Gilbert warned.

Ludwig scoffed, “I already have a police report. What’s a second going to do?” He rolled his eyes and walked on as if nothing. Gilbert was genuinely impressed, smiling at this change in Ludwig.

“Come, Feliciano, let’s take you to a hospital for that.” Ludwig even went and wrapped an arm around his waist and Feliciano…loved it, smiling and leaning more into his hold as they headed to the van, beginning to make their way, leaving finally an evil behind.

Chapter Text

A week has passed since Feliciano basically moved in with Ludwig and Gilbert. Sure, it’s a tight space, but they make due with the sudden changes. Ludwig really wasn’t using a lot of the storage in his room, Feliciano could easily put a lot of his stuff there. His art materials had to settle in a corner in the living room, Gilbert having loved the touch they made and neither brothers minding if Feliciano was taken by inspiration and began to color. Gilbert and Ludwig didn’t bother to mention the stains, cleaning them whenever Feliciano was busy cooking, which was his pay for the stay. He had begun a temporary job at one of the exhibition centers he had previously presented his works in, constantly mentioning to the brothers that he hoped he would gain enough to leave and get his own apartment. Ludwig…actually dreaded that.

Feliciano was very clearly sleeping in Ludwig’s bed. In the short time, both had accustomed to the cuddles, the hold of each other, the kisses, the tired chats of the night and the vibrant ones of the morning. Of course, there was also the intense love making. It was always powerful, with strength in the way of Ludwig’s thrusts but also in the telling of their love. They tried to leave the loud shouts of declaration whenever they were alone in the apartment, sometimes refusing to even touch each other to avoid making Gilbert feel awkward. Although, Gilbert had once told them, “go ahead, it’s like free porn.” That was not at all convincing.

But…there was a dreaded countdown haunting their minds. Ludwig was set to leave in a matter of days and they were terrified of what it could mean to their relationship. At some point, Feliciano was expected back at his own farm in Italy. Berlin was not meant to be a settled down place for either of them. But there was so much desire to be with one another. They still thought of futures together where it could somehow work, one worded on such nights where they kept close, warm along with the raging summer outside.

“Does it really get that cold in winter on your farm?” Feliciano wondered, tracing fingers across his face.

“Berlin doesn’t compare. If you ever visit, we’d have to get you new coats. We’re secluded which means we won’t have a lot of opportunities to go out…not to mention there’s a lot of work to be done. It is highly likely it will always snow and I usually have to clear paths, help the animals through it, get firewood for the house since I haven’t been able to get a good modern heater.”

“You don’t have a modern heater?” That surprised Feliciano for some reason.

Ludwig sighed, “no, but-” sensing the dread in Feliciano’s expression, “-I-I’ve been thinking of doing that. It’s just expensive…a lot of work, practically need to get the house renovated. It’s really old and so more delicate.”

Feliciano got closer to him…trying to imagine helping Ludwig through such a situation. He wished…he so wished he could be with him for all those challenges.

“But uh…what about yours? Does it get bad winters? The summers?”

Feliciano sighed, “our winters are not nearly as intense. We might get a bit of snow once every couple of years, but it’s nothing to worry about. My brother and I used to get excited whenever we could get it. We only played in it for a day though…by the next it was gone as if it had never been there…we definitely didn’t have to work with it. But our summers…” and a dreaded realization came. “They’ve…gotten worse the last few years. We had to install air conditioners in our home and even had wildfires on the farmlands. Nonno luckily got along with the firemen in the town and they taught us how to deal with it and to count on them for any emergency. Still…with each year, a new batch of land doesn’t work anymore because the heat is too much. Once we deal with the owning situation, I think that would be one of our main concerns to work with.” He hadn’t remembered how big of a concern it was until that moment, leaning more into Ludwig’s chest as comfort and Ludwig took him in, wrapping arms around him, rubbing at whatever skin he could reach, laying kisses on his shoulder from time to time.

Ludwig maybe had an idea on how to fix it, but it involved having to go to Feliciano’s farm to take a look at it himself, something that at this point he wasn’t sure if he could suggest.

They simply sighed, defeated for a moment. Perhaps…indeed their relationship would either remain long distance…or it would have to end to the pressure of their responsibilities.

“I don’t want to let you go,” Feliciano murmured into his chest, holding him tighter.

Ludwig couldn’t really say the same as he was sure he would break and he did not want to show Feliciano such a show of weakness…they needed to be strong, they needed to show some strength that could get them through this. He held him ever tighter, breathed him in stronger, everything to avoid the tears, the breaking, the chance that he could disappear right there in his arms.

With the show having done its last performance, right now it was a matter of cleaning up, gathering documents to the theater owners and getting it ready for the next show meant to play. Feliciano having worked on the set, and then last minute playing the titular character, meant that he was needed for much of this part and so he had spent what was Ludwig's last few days at the theater. Although, yes, he was sad that he couldn't really enjoy some time with him before he had to go, another part of him appreciated the lonesome time to think, reflect, to slowly culminate what this trip had been.

Before, he had a set schedule that he had followed since his grandfather had gotten sick, loyal to its ticking to the very point. This morning he woke up at 9:00…and he didn't fret, groan or complain…just accepted that it was what it was, that he still had time to enjoy the day and continued with his usual routine for the morning. He had to admit…it was nice seeing his brother every morning, his excited grin and wave, always as eager to meet him as if they hadn't shared deep conversations along with Feliciano just the night before. Gilbert would head off to work after they shared some breakfast, leaving the motorcycle keys just in case he felt like using it. Ludwig didn't bother with it, not minding taking the bus or ubahn to the kindergarten or to a park, a gallery, a museum, a restaurant, even meeting with people he had met in his time here. And of course, Feliciano.

Feliciano now his boyfriend, his everything, his wonder.

All in all, it had been… nice. Yes, he had actually really enjoyed his time in Berlin and he even felt grateful towards it. He didn't know if he would ever admit it to Gilbert though. He would get his hopes way too high for a chance at staying in the city. As much as he actually did enjoy it, Ludwig still wanted his farm, he still wanted to return to it and settle a whole new routine with more shine and promise than the one he had before. The issue was just…trying to see how he could fit Feliciano into it, and up until now, nothing had really shown as a direct answer.

That evening, he had returned to the apartment in a dreaded emptiness…it reminded him of those heavy days of solitude after his grandfather’s death, where he was lost, unsure, debating even if this path he had been on was the right one. He found himself somewhat with the same painted worry, the apartment looking grey and desolated without the colors of his brother and boyfriend. He sighed, deciding that he didn’t want to be there without them. It was dinner time but he didn’t feel like abendbrot, or pizza, or even sushi…instead…

He couldn’t believe he was doing this.

He sighed before he picked the keys for the motorcycle, the helmet, and made his way to the inner courtyard where it was parked.

The restaurant was not far, less than five minutes, but the ride was still a nice breeze, a nice change. He didn’t think he would enjoy riding a motorcycle…he would actually miss it once he went back. Now he was actually considering getting his own for the farm. He arrived and parked the motorcycle somewhere on the front, catching the attention of the few customers there. Sure, probably not the best place to put it, but there really wasn’t a parking garage he could use and he doubted Sadiq would mind. The very man gazed out the window, surprised, especially since he wasn’t with either Gilbert or Feliciano. Once Ludwig was sure the motorcycle was as secure as he could leave it, he made his way in, a rather shy wave as a greeting.

“Ludwig! …what are you doing here?” Sadiq questioned.

“Uh…I wanted döner.”

For some reason Sadiq was not expecting that answer. “Oh…sure then! With everything?”

“Please.”

“Coming right up.” He started the preparations, Ludwig taking one of the tables, remaining in what Sadiq noticed was a pitiful silence. He didn’t take out his phone, or even a book, no, he just sat there and looked…depressed. “What’s gotten into you?” Sadiq found himself asking.

Ludwig was startled, not expecting to be broken like this from his train of thought. “Oh, um…just thinking about… some things…”

“Your brother told me you’re leaving in a couple days. He looked just as miserable as you do now when he told me.”

Ludwig sighed, believing it and now worried over his brother’s sadness when it was time to ride the train back to Bavaria.

“And don’t get me started on Feliciano. It almost looked like someone had kicked him.”

Ah yes, the other heaviness in his mind, drowning him more in sorrow, all while Sadiq went on quite happily preparing his food.

“Yeah, I know, it’s not looking so good.”

“Not that it’s my place, but why don’t you just stay here? Get an apartment with Feliciano, a job at the kindergarten and all is settled! Everyone is happy,” Sadiq thought it that simple.

“As much as I enjoyed working at the kindergarten, it’s not exactly the kind of career I want to have.”

“Then what career do you want to have?”

“I just want to work on my farm,” his intention still strong despite.

“Doesn’t Feliciano also have a farm?”

Ludwig sighed, “there’s issues with that right now.”

“Then why doesn’t he just move to your farm?”

It…was an idea, a solution, Ludwig having a flourish of emotions at the images that ran through his head at such a possibility. Silence settled as Ludwig thought seriously about the suggestion. It was sudden though, he and Feliciano hadn’t even been together a month and he didn’t know how much of his life was Feliciano ready to upbend for him. But they wanted to be together right? Shouldn’t they be ready to make sacrifices? He wondered if he would be willing to move to Feliciano’s own farm at short notice and he surprised himself at how much he would…but his own farm…would he be willing to keep it still? Maybe they could do holidays? Maybe- Ludwig groaned at his predicament and just wanted some ideal answer instantly. Sadiq then realized that maybe he shouldn’t have imposed with all his questions. He sighed, coming to bring the readied döner on a plate.

“Hey, something will come up, you’ll see. You still have some time left to enjoy the city. Just…eat right now.” He placed the plate in front of him and left back to the kitchen to clean and deal with any new orders that came.

Sadiq was right, he should just focus on eating right now, trying to ease for the night. Eventually Feliciano would come back home and they could enjoy a simple night of cuddling. He smiled at the idea as he began his bites, making the taste somehow more vibrant…like he was having his very first döner all over again. After almost seven months and having tried döner from several other places in the city, he came to a realization that Gilbert had made clear from his first visit.

“You know…this döner is really the best one I’ve had,” he uttered like it was common knowledge, mundane, continuing his meal while Sadiq froze at the kitchen.

“Really?” He had to make sure. It was odd to receive such compliments…from a German.

“Yeah, it’s really good.” And he was being serious, his focus going back on trying to finish, Sadiq smiling and leaving him be, trying to finish his wiping for now.

He was interrupted yet again, this time by a call, Natalya’s name on the screen. Okay, that was odd…his wife’s sister never called him. “Yes?” He went instantly to ask, knowing something must be wrong. “What?” He suddenly shouted, startling Ludwig. “You’re heading to the hospital, right?” Now Ludwig was worried, looking over to the kitchen. “Ugh, we said the one in Kreuzberg! …Yeah, fine, fine, I get it! …I thought we had three more weeks! …No, no, I’ll get there… I’ll get there!” Ludwig could tell Sadiq had hung up, aggressively, muttering and pacing.

“What’s wrong?”

“Yekaterina is going into labor!” Sadiq shouted.

“Oh shit.”

“She was with her sister in Spandau and they had to take a hospital over there. It will take me forever with public transport.”

“Do you know how long till the baby is here?”

“Between minutes or a couple of hours.”

“And you really want to be there?”

“Of course I want to be there! This is the birth of my child and my wife needs support!”

Ludwig went quickly through the map on his phone. “Come,” he suddenly demanded.

“Wha-what?” Sadiq was dumbfounded.

“I’m taking you to the hospital.”

“With what? Your Gilbert made motorcycle?”

“Yes,” he said with utmost confidence when surely there was doubt in the way Sadiq said his brother’s name.

“...but-”

“The motorcycle works perfectly fine. My brother honestly did a great job with it. Trust me, I wouldn’t be using it if I had any doubt in it…and I wouldn’t even be suggesting to take you to the hospital.”

Sadiq, left with nothing much to choose from, just sighed and nodded in acceptance. “Got any extra helmets?”

“You can use Feliciano’s.” He kept it on the motorcycle just in case he had to pick him up unexpectedly.

Sadiq groaned and looked terrified as he joined Ludwig outside, took the helmet and began putting it on while Ludwig made the preparations to get it onto the street and turn it on.

What was meant to be a half hour ride, Ludwig turned into fifteen minutes. Sadiq screamed most of the way, calling him insane, fearing that any turn could be his last and at some point having called out for Allah along with some Turkish words Ludwig couldn’t understand, and to be honest, he didn’t really care for, focused on getting them in this rush without getting them into some heinous accident.

Ludwig got Sadiq to the hospital, not a word spared to him as he rushed inside, making his way to the maternity ward. By the time Ludwig reached the waiting hall, they had already taken Sadiq inside. There he met with Ivan and Natalya, only sparring him single waves before they decided to either pace in agitated wait or sit in worry for their eldest sister. He was quite surprised to see Talim and Luis as well, each with their own partner. Apparently they had been with them as well when Yekaterina’s contractions started getting worse. He was debating what to do next when he received the text from Feliciano.

‘Just finished work. Where are you? Can you pick me up?’

‘Hospital. I was with Sadiq at his restaurant when they called. Yekaterina is in labor.’

‘WHAT! WHERE?’

‘Spandau.’

‘Send me the hospital’s location, I’ll meet you there.’

‘Engelchen, it’s more than an hour away with public transport. I can leave and meet up with you back at the apartment.’

‘No! I’m heading over now! I want to see the baby too!’

Ludwig sighed and settled himself with the rest, with various discussions to keep them awake, coffee shared, staring at the ward doors hoping that Sadiq would come out with news. A rush of footsteps from the other end of the hall interrupted the silence that had settled the last couple of minutes. They all turned to quite a sudden explosion of color and vibrant presence. Balloons, plenty, of baby milk bottles, diapers, pacifiers and ‘It’s a boy!’, Feliciano held them all in one hand, while the other had a wrapped basket, filled with necessities for the mother. And if that wasn’t enough, Gilbert held two more.

“Where is it? Where is it?” Gilbert demanded in a panic.

“Relax, it hasn’t come out yet.” Natalya was annoyed.

Gilbert breathed out relieved, “good, I want to be one of the first people to see my godson.”

“Since when are you the godfather?” Natalya was insulted.

“Since Sadiq promised me his firstborn!"

Ludwig rolled his eyes as Gilbert started a whole new round of bickering for the important position of godfather between all those that were present. Ludwig instead put his attention on letting out a smile for Feliciano, an arm wrapped around his waist to pull him close, Feliciano sharing the same grin and not minding at all being pulled to that comfort. Ludwig had intended to lay his head on his…but one of the balloons knocked against him instead.

“What’s with this?” He questioned.

“This is a festive situation and I want Yekaterina to feel as festive as possible.”

“I really don’t think she’ll need that…”

“It’s cute balloons…and we got her adult diapers too!”

“Now that is actually thoughtful.”

“See, I-” Feliciano was interrupted by a call, his brother’s name appearing on screen. As he excused and turned to take it, Sadiq made his own entrance to the hall.

“So?” Ivan was the first to word everyone’s agitation, like a composer making them all stand, now eager for what Sadiq had to say.

“Mama is doing well and it’s a healthy baby boy. His name is Yulian,” he announced with celebration that did well to spread through the group. Everyone shouted and clapped, but suddenly like a herd going over Sadiq, demands on who would go first to see the mother and baby. “Goddamit! She just gave birth, you animals! Let her sleep!” Sadiq shouted, not standing for it. “Once she wakes up, Ivan and Natalya will go first, but you all better wash your hands…I know you perverts.” Ivan and Natalya held their heads high, smiling eager.

Sadiq continued discussing the order, Gilbert, Ludwig and Feliciano sadly left for last. Gilbert was about ready to fight for an earlier position, but Ludwig just signaled to leave it. He understood Yekaterina needed space and didn’t need an invasion of balloons and baskets right now. He was expecting for Feliciano to come back disappointed for the long wait, instead, he looked concerned for something else entirely. He didn’t even bother with congratulating Sadiq.

“Hm, what’s wrong?” Ludwig quickly caught on.

“Uh…it’s about the trials…”

“What happened this time?”

“They want me home in two days.”

“Already?”

Feliciano nodded, “they want me to testify and, uh…” he was nervous, finding it sudden, not sure if Ludwig would go along with it. “They’re asking if you can come too.”

“Huh?” That was not at all what he was expecting.

“Well, you took the recording and pictures of Keron with his girlfriend…and you also beat him up…he’s trying to use it against us. They want you to testify.”

Sure, of course he would, he would do everything if it meant Feliciano’s family could keep their farm, but he was still widened, distant in his expression…because it meant…”I’ve…never been to Italy.”

It was Feliciano’s turn to widen in surprise, “wait, no? Never? Not even to Rome or Venice?”

“I’ve…only been to Austria.”

“Isn’t it really close to you?”

“...yeah.”

“Then you definitely have to come with me!” Feliciano even took his hands as if he could take him to the airport that instant.

“Re-really? I-isn’t it a little too sudden?”

“I don’t care. I love you and I need you for this. Can we leave tomorrow?”

“Tomorrow?” He thought was going to have a heart attack.

It was a fretfulness Gilbert noticed. “Hey, what’s wrong?”

“We need to go to Italy tomorrow,” Ludwig seemed to have decided then, earning a bright smile from Feliciano.

“Ah, sweet!”

“No!”

“Ah,” Feliciano saddened.

“I’m supposed to be going back to the farm! I can’t extend my stay! I don’t know if Astrid can keep dealing with everything on her own.”

“Doesn’t she have a huge crush on you? I’m sure she won’t mind some…two more weeks?”

“She has a crush on you?” Feliciano questioned, quite amused.

“Yeah, it’s annoying…but two more weeks!”

“You’ll just really have to make it up to her when you come back.”

“Hm, I think I already have an idea,” Feliciano thought.

“But the signing! Gilbert! I made it seven months just as you told me! You have to come down to sign the farm!”

“God, Ludwig, I will, I’ll meet you down there after you come back from Italy.”

“...really?” It was all starting to get much more simpler than he had imagined.

“Yeah. Tell you what, I’ll even arrive some days ahead to get the house ready and maybe help Astrid a bit so she doesn’t freak out too much.”

“You…would really do that?”

Gilbert sighed, “Ludwig, I love you and despite what you think, I didn’t make this bet just because I wanted to mess with you…well…partly, but overall, I just wanted you to do something different. I wanted you to be a bit more daring and try some new things before you really tried to settle on only the farm. You ended up doing…way more than I thought you would, and look, hot boyfriend.” Feliciano chuckled, Ludwig glared, the hold he had of his waist becoming tighter. “Go to Italy, go to the trial, get Feliciano’s farm for his family and enjoy your time. Fly back to Munich and afterwards we can settle the farm stuff once and for all.”

Ludwig hadn’t remembered Gilbert being so confident, so proud even. Everything was all laid quite well for him. Besides, a chance to visit Italy, even if for a trial. Well, maybe he should make use of it. Some well deserved holidays.

He sighed, “fine. Let’s get home and pack then.”

Feliciano shouted in celebration and Gilbert hollered along, which then earned a scolding shush from some nurses.

Chapter Text

The sun was intense, Feliciano told him the expected at this time of year. He had drenched himself with sunscreen…and still he stayed under the shade of the umbrella, book in hand, laying comfortably on a lounge chair…taking sips from a spritz Feliciano’s mother had kindly made for him.

He was the exact image of a German on holiday, one of those that he had always thought would not be possible for him. Yet here he was, minus the socks with sandals because he did have some sort of standards, even if there was a trial the very next day. He leaned back, shutting the book after finishing a chapter, breathing in, relaxed, comforted, turning to the side just as Feliciano was heading out from the pool. Oh god, he had only imagined this! The sun and water made quite the effort together to make him glisten, he smiled at him as he neared, and he swore angels were singing in some corner of this villa. Feliciano took a towel from a chair, doing his best to dry himself so he was able to sit down next to Ludwig.

“Ah, I needed that! It’s so hot! You should go in too!”

“I’m fine for now, maybe tomorrow.”

Feliciano saddened, “Ludwig, you should really enjoy the pool while you still can…we don’t know if we’ll be able to keep it…”

“Hey!” Ludwig was insulted, sitting up, a hand going for Feliciano’s thigh, soft, caring and enough for Feliciano to grin again. “This house and farm are going to stay yours. I’ll promise you that. I’ll make sure in court tomorrow.” And Feliciano was confident in it, leaning down towards him, kissing and easily getting into an embrace, every limb entangled and making their kiss much more passionate. Bless that Renata and Lovino had gone out to get groceries for the big dinner they had planned, Ludwig would be mortified, especially since now Feliciano began to rub against him in a call that he recognized.

“I’m not having sex with you here,” Ludwig had to interrupt.

Feliciano pouted, “can we go up to my room then?”

“It’s your room!”

“...yeeaahh?” Feliciano didn’t understand.

“Isn’t it weird…in your grandpa’s old house?”

He couldn’t recall Feliciano looking so deadpanned.

“Are you really going to look for whatever excuse?”

“No! I’m just…I shouldn’t misuse you and your family’s hospitality!”

Feliciano rolled his eyes, “Ludwig, that’s very noble of you, but-” he raised himself in just the perfect position to get his clothed hardened member to rub against Ludwig’s own, Ludwig hissing to not shout his moan while Feliciano gave such an alluring smirk, a bite to his lips, that made him want to cave and take him right there. “-I need you right now.”

Once again, he was glad Renata and Lovino were out, because they were being especially loud.

It wasn’t just the loud moans of his name and beggings of more, it was also the bed thrashing along with Ludwig’s movement. Every available window and door was open, letting in the delightful breeze they needed as they made their own heat. The curtains danced as Ludwig hardened his grasp on Feliciano’s waist, pulling his ass against him, the slaps just like the music of his voice. There were a lot of hanging canvases, some also laying against the ground or walls, surely ones that Feliciano had been making since he was a child. His arching back, his kneeled body, the way his arms extended and his hands took a harshened grasp at the bottom bed board, was just like another of the canvases with immaculate scenes, fitting along to the room, the light and the wind.

Ludwig grunted, but had to push through to his question, “are you sure?” It was the first time they were having sex without a condom. After Feliciano had found out Keron had been cheating on him, he had tested himself and had graciously come with negative results. Since Ludwig had never had any other partners, they thought it best. And how well they enjoyed it, how much more blissful, connected, Ludwig wanted nothing more than to spill himself fully in him.

“God, yes! Yes! Cum inside me, please!” Feliciano begged, moving himself stronger against Ludwig’s hips. Ludwig tightened his grip, enjoying some more of that delicious friction before he couldn’t hold himself longer.

A shout that Ludwig was sure could have traversed these Tuscan plains, not caring who was in their vicinity since all he could succumb himself to was this release, his hold in such a harsh that it was enough for Feliciano to shout out his own, spilling and drowning in the same euphoria Ludwig found himself in. Feliciano fell down to the bed, Ludwig fell to his side, both taking the time to enjoy from this afterglow, breathe and then settle themselves in this wondrous comfort. Feliciano found himself enjoying that slick between his legs from Ludwig, biting his lips and letting it heat him into fire once again.

As the haze slowly dissipated, they found their eyes, a focal that kept them still grounded in one another as if they were still in sexual throes. Smiles, reaches of hands, a pull that almost had Ludwig mounting again.

There was the loud slam of a door, echoing down the halls, much more potent for them and oh god Feliciano still had the door to his own room open.

“Feliciano! Vieni qui e aiuta mamma a scaricare la roba dalla macchina!” Lovino was shouting in menace.

Feliciano groaned but had to be quick, mumbling Italian complaints as he went picking his clothes and making his way to his bathroom to take a quick shower.

“Ludwig! You come help too, you piece of shit!”

Ludwig sighed, knowing he had to rid himself from this high immediately.

He heaved himself up and rushed to join Feliciano for that shower.

The view from the perch he took was spectacular.

Rolling green hills, medieval houses, modern cars careful in their thread of old cobblestone roads. After the results of the last trial, Ludwig could breathe it all in with victory, as surely some past soldier would have done. Maybe he could go back now, perhaps they were already done with the signing. Instead, he found himself almost crashing down to the ground by the sudden impulse of this embrace. Other than looks and smile, it seemed that Feliciano had also inherited the strength of his mother’s hugs. It was quite uncanny how she managed to spin and even raise up someone of Ludwig’s large physique, the pure happiness she felt enough of a propel.

“I cannot begin to describe the relief, and the utter gratitude I feel towards you, Ludwig Beilschmidt! I could kiss you!” And Feliciano then came, with a cough and a pout, not finding this at all tasteful. “Oh!” Renata completely detangled herself, moving aside so Feliciano could move through, taking his own embrace with Ludwig, almost territorial in the way he wrapped himself around Ludwig’s body. Ludwig found it rather endearing, even having his arm around Feliciano’s waist as was now becoming their usual, leaning and placing a kiss of assurance on his head. “But of course, I’ll leave that to my son, mi dispiace.” She turned toward the pile of documents in her hands, a now treasure, her kiss of reward to them, taking it to her chest as her own lover.

“Hm, I never thought it would be a potato that would save us from this mess,” Lovino commented, not so much fury in what had quickly become his usual insults to him. This was probably the most Ludwig had seen him smile and actually look in comfort. After all, they had a home that would stay theirs now, no menaces to take it away, especially after their father and Keron were given restraining orders and were facing prison. They felt safe, a bright future ahead and all eager for it.

“Come, we must still celebrate! We can stop at Quinto’s to get that pig roast and then I can make that pasta salad-” and Renata went on with all kinds of delicacies that had Ludwig’s mouth watering.

Feliciano gave a sign to Lovino, one the older brother understood with ease, taking his mother’s elbow to drag her along down the street to where their car was parked. She was so focused on going on with food ingredients and what would go best with what wine to really notice that she was being dragged away, Ludwig and Feliciano chuckling as they heard her voice dwindle in the distance until silence settled for them.

“So, I was thinking,” Feliciano could now focus his own attention on his boyfriend, turned fully for him, hands on his chest as if to keep him from moving. “Mamma suggested you could take the room down the hall from mine. Nonno used to have it as a meeting room, but we don’t do that kind of stuff at home anymore. It’s huge and it has a great view to the fields on the west side. We could fix the air conditioner and get proper heating and Lovino said we could do it as quick as this week. I was going to suggest you move into my old room, but I think it’s best we just both take this room!” He smiled up at him with such expectation, Ludwig startled.

“Wait…are you saying you…want me to stay?”

“Yes…please,” and for once he looked suddenly scared, now only seeing that there was a probability that Ludwig could deny. After all, they’ve only been dating for a month.

“Feliciano…I do have to go back to my farm,” Ludwig was still determined, even if the wonders of Feliciano’s home.

And Feliciano’s excitement was going down, sadness and hurt, but Ludwig took him by the arms before he could slip him away any longer. “Come with me,” he declared.

“What?” Feliciano shook. Of course it was too sudden to mention. But Ludwig knew he had to keep going. Forward, brave and a lot of confidence. It’s what he had learned from his time in Berlin. “Feliciano, look, let me make this clear. I love it here. It’s gorgeous, your mother is a sweetheart and your brother makes the best pizzas I’ve ever had. You love it here as well and I can just…feel and see that you belong here…and I don’t want to take that away from you.” Feliciano braced for the worst. “I have intentions on coming back. I really have ideas to help you with that dried land you have issues with, but I need you to be sure of your intentions with me. Before we make any clear decisions, I want you to come with me. I need you to look at my farm and decide if it’s worth staying with me for.”

“Of course!” With so much dedication and devotion, Feliciano wanting to ooze it out from the palm of his hands as he grasped the sides of Ludwig’s face. “Yes, yes, I-I…I’ll definitely go with you!” He was nervous and scared, but still just the willingness that Ludwig needed out of him.

“Really?” Ludwig was also scared and hesitant.

“Ludwig, I really want this to work as well! I love you so much and…I know it’s only been a month, but I already don’t know how I can go on without you. I’m willing to do absolutely everything to stay by your side!”

Ludwig took his hand and kissed it, sighing and not understanding yet how this could all be real, that this was all happening and that now everything shone more with a chance.

“Come on, let’s go meet up with your mom and Lovino. We still have a couple of days.”

“Do I tell them I’ll be going with you to Germany?”

“If you want them to be ready to go a lot of days without you again, sure.”

They went on discussing the details of that trip. What day should they leave, what should they bring, Feliciano holding to his arm, walking down the street, together and ready to face it all.

Gilbert couldn’t believe how warm it still was, swiping off the sweat with the less dirty part of the glove he was using.

“Seriously, you’ve only done four!” Astrid was insulted, carrying two bushes, only a couple from the ones she wanted to plant all over the front as a sort of welcoming gesture for Ludwig.

“Hey! These are some beautiful holes I’ve dug for you here!”

“It took you forever! Ludwig is going to be here any minute now and he’s gonna come to see all of this looking disgusting!” It was honestly the only thing that was messed up at that moment.

Astrid actually did an amazing job taking care of the farm for the last seven months on her own. All the produce had been picked, some already sold, some she had given to other neighboring farms or homes. All the animals had been well taken care of. The only casualty had been a pig who had died of old age. But a new calf had been born. The house was spotless, everything was organized down to even the tractors that lay awaiting for their master in their sheds. It was almost like Ludwig had never left. They had mentioned they would be giving her an appropriate gift, and Gilbert really hoped so because this girl, despite her awkward crush on Ludwig, deserved something grand for the immaculate care she gave this farm.

Whatever Gilbert wanted to shout at her next, was interrupted by the sudden engine that roared in the silence of this valley. They saw a car approaching, recognizing it as the rented one Ludwig had mentioned he would take to come. The dogs, seeming to know that their master was coming, barked, jumped and took their stance next to them ready to greet. Astrid went into a panic, throwing the bushes rather haphazardly into their holes, getting rid of any of her clothes that were covered in dirt. It left her with an old buttoned up shirt and baggy jeans. There was a beautiful white dress waiting in the living room she wanted to take for this moment, but she had no time, internally groaning that she had no choice but to present herself as this. She walked over by Gilbert’s side, who didn’t care about the dirt he had on himself. It was just his brother. He’d seen him in far worse.

The car was soon right in front of them, Ludwig appearing from the diver’s side, turning around and only facing Gilbert.

“Hey!” Gilbert waved his arms wanting a hug.

“Jaaa,” Ludwig groaned but still went and took his brother into an embrace. He then went to his dogs, taking each to pet and smile. “Wow, place is already looking great.” This he turned towards Astrid. She shook, she smiled, she blushed, whatever she planned disintegrating in her head.

“The whole place is, she honestly did a really good job,” Gilbert defended.

“I have no doubt.”

“We-we could…take a look around if you want,” Astrid suggested shyly.

“Sure, we can show it to Feliciano too.”

“Feliciano?” She questioned.

And that’s when Ludwig opened the passenger seat and out came a very…very handsome man with the most gorgeous curls she had seen, a bright smile that would have made the sun envious, youthful, charming, she was close to melting on the spot. And then…Ludwig had his arms wrapped around his waist, a way too adoring smile on him, intense with…love.

Oh, oh…oh…oh!!!!

“Astrid, I’d like to introduce you to Feliciano Valenti, my boyfriend.”

And every single daydream she had ever concocted ever since her crush had developed, broke into pieces, behind it all a large sign flashing in neon colors just reading ‘He’s gay!’

Embarrassment, failure to not have noticed. She had been an idiot, a dumbass, a desperate bitch, and she kept on with derogatories against herself. She had to say something, anything before they thought the worst. She didn’t want them thinking she was homophobic. “Ah-”

“It’s so nice to meet you, Astrid! Ludwig told me about you and all the hard work you’ve done!” Feliciano took on before she could say something insane and she was appreciative of him for that. “You deserve a gift! A really good gift! And trust me, my idea is better. Ludwig just thought about giving you a fruit basket.”

She chuckled away the pain, “uh…what is it?”

And that’s when a third person came from the car. She was eventually going to faint from being surrounded by all these handsome men. Oh, he was beautiful. Dark hair with spectacular waves, bright hazel eyes, tanned, muscled, an utter dream. His eyes landed on hers and he smirked, his teeth looking like they wanted to rip her clothes apart. She reddened, she wrapped her arms around herself as if stopping his intrusion, hating even more the clothes she was currently wearing.

“This is Daniele! He’s one of the garden helpers from my farm. He really wanted to come to Germany and I offered him the chance and to stay for the next seven months.”

Seven months! She gasped, mouth hanging open, her mind going to…not so farm things with that man.

“He’ll be your own personal helper to do as you please! He has all kinds of experiences and is willing to do most everything!” Feliciano was proud.

“I thought it would be a just enough gift. It was a lot to ask of you to take care of my farm by yourself and I just thought maybe someone…else could give you the same effort,” Ludwig really hoped she understood the message without getting too hurt. With the way her eyes still seemed to scan Daniele, vacant, flushed and no other response, Ludwig guessed it did.

Gilbert decided to stay an extra week to help Feliciano with settling. He of course took Ludwig’s room as residence, command of food preparations, and one of the empty rooms as his art studio. Ludwig had reminded him that he was only meant to stay two weeks. Feliciano had scoffed.

Only the day after their arrival, the three of them had gone together to the lawyer’s office. Feliciano was witness as Gilbert signed away his part of the farm to be owned by Ludwig. When he left, he promised to send them back whatever was still behind in Berlin and told Ludwig to expect him for Christmas.

Ludwig and Feliciano had the farm to themselves…and they were quick to make it their own. The two weeks turned to months, Feliciano now a sure part of Ludwig’s new schedule. Most days he still tried to wake up at 5:00 to do some work out routine, having spent the night somehow tied around Feliciano’s naked body, trying to remove himself much to Feliciano’s protest and groans. Feliciano always stayed in bed, relishing in wondrous sleep while Ludwig prepared some basic things before the day started, including their breakfast. Normally, Feliciano wasn’t out of bed until 7:00 and he was still grouchy, slow, tripping on everything, half naked and only being able to hold his first cup of coffee. If it wasn’t for Ludwig’s insisting, Feliciano would easily be waking up at 10:00 everyday. From then on, it really varied and there came a point where Ludwig just stopped trying to schedule whatever Feliciano would do for the day. Sometimes he would just take cups of coffee or hot chocolate and watch a series or movie. Sometimes he would lock himself in the new art room, coming out with some incredible work that would surely be sold to a gallery by the next week. Other times he would practice his singing, or the piano, or even make a whole new song from whatever Ludwig had last written. For lunch, Ludwig would always come back to the house with magnificent dishes waiting for him and Feliciano going on and on with whatever he had done that morning. Afterwards, Feliciano would be more inclined to join him on some work on the farm. They would work on the fields, plough, pick, sometimes Feliciano would sit and sketch if he saw an especially pretty vegetable or fruit. He would go greet the animals and do some small things that perhaps Ludwig had forgotten in the morning. While it was still warm enough, they would sometimes do picnics, lay a blanket, lay on it themselves and even make love, loud and indiscreet. It was only them and Ludwig was confident that no one would come to these parts of the field. In the evenings, Ludwig was more involved in the dinner making, passing spices, mixing sauces or making sure that the pasta didn’t overboil. If he didn’t feel too exhausted, he would bake something to the side that always made Feliciano glow for dessert time. Afterwards, they saw a movie, an episode or two of a series or a documentary, cuddled, close, a kiss from time to time, or even making out, Ludwig turning off whatever was playing and focusing instead on taking Feliciano’s clothes off, laying him at him any surface of this house and ravaging him completely. Sometimes they would wait it out and head to bed to make it more comfortable…but Ludwig had daydreamed of having Feliciano on every part of his house and he was determined to fulfill that.

Sure, that routine changed if they went to Regensburg or even went as far as Munich, but overall it was still a wonder, a perfection Ludwig never thought could come for himself.

On the day of his grandfather’s death, a day that a year ago had been of so much darkness, grief and hopelessness, he was visiting his tomb hand in hand with his dream boyfriend.

Winter came, one that had Ludwig worrying over how Feliciano would react to. Yet despite the heavy snow and the days stuck at home, it somehow strengthened their bond, the sex wanted heat that made it constant, more cuddling, more deepening chats, especially a big one that came about a week before Christmas and Gilbert’s visit.

It was snowing, a nice blanket laying across the field. Feliciano wanted to build a large snowman and Ludwig decided to indulge him, helping along and now they had one almost as tall as the dried tree they laid upon as a break.

“You’re lucky I had a big enough scarf for it.”

“The carrot kind of looks ridiculous.”

“I don’t think we can grow a carrot big enough.”

Feliciano shrugged, “I still like him though! I’m naming him Oreste.”

“It’s just going to make you attached.”

“And?”

“It will melt…and you’ll be sad.”

“It’s inevitable, but I’ll remember him well…and we can build him again next year!”

“Next year?” Ludwig startled with hope, while Feliciano looked completely unfazed, smiling and content, everything already a norm.

“Yeah, next year! What? …are you kicking me out?” He looked truly fearful at such a prospect.

Ludwig laughed, “of course not, it’s just…I didn’t think you would like it enough here to decide to stay with me.”

“Ludwig, I’m going to be honest…it’s…really cold!” He shivered extra, but luckily they had some hot chocolate in a thermo bottle that he took an instant sip from. “The food is not so good and the only one of the neighbors I like is Astrid.” Ludwig looked ashamed for all those faults, as if he himself had caused them. “But! Laying by the fireplace in your living room is so nice! The pastries and sweets are amazing! Your animals are sweethearts and I enjoy taking care of them. Plus! Look at this!” He pointed to the view they had, snowy, but the distant alps, the hills, the picturesque Bavarian houses. “This is beautiful! I really do not mind making this my home!” And he sighed content, comfortable and truly happy, more sure as he laid his head on Ludwig’s shoulder.

“But!”

“Oh no.”

Feliciano sighed, “I really need to go back to Italy at some point. Mamma and Lovi are already really sad that I’m not spending Christmas with them.”

“And we can!”

“It can’t be a mere two week holiday, Luddy.”

And Ludwig smiled, ready to suggest, “how about we stay from the summer? And we can make up for not being there for Christmas by staying there until the new year.”

“Hm, and then?”

Ludwig shrugged, “we’ll see. I guess what I’m trying to say is that we could travel between. Half a year here, half a year by yours.”

“Who's going to take care of your farm?”

“Astrid really liked her time here when I was gone.”

“And she’s always helping us with something, along with Daniele.”

“Exactly, I think she won’t mind taking care of it for then. If anything I can start paying her and I can also hire extra workers too…together we’re making enough money for that.”

They smiled to each other, knowing that this chance for their future was becoming clearer and definite.

“We can even take some time to go back to Berlin, I’m sure that will make my brother scream.”

Feliciano chuckled, “it will be nice! That city changed our lives.”

“You’re right…but, I kind of want to go to other places too…kind of want to go to Spain.”

“And we can! …I want to go to Japan!”

Ludwig laughed, “we can try to make it happen.”

“Oh, this is going to be so much fun!” Feliciano already got giddy, but also a strong breeze had him shivering again…and the hot chocolate was gone. He pouted, ready to cry even.

“Go, head back home.”

“But I was supposed to help you check on Ulya and Jupiter.” A cow and her recent calf. Ludwig had to make sure that their stable was warm enough.

“It’s not a lot. If we have to do something major, I’ll let you know. But we chose a really good heater for that stable, I think it will be fine.”

Feliciano sighed, “fine. Do you want me to make extra cacao?”

“Can you make Italian hot chocolate?”

Feliciano’s eyes brightened like stars. “Of course! It just might take a bit longer.”

“Don’t worry about it. Just make enough for us to drink for while we watch Deadpool.”

“You got it, captain!” And that last comical salute before he headed off, skipping, excited for what the night could hold for them.

Once Ludwig knew that Feliciano was far enough away, he picked his phone and turned towards where the cow stables were, making his usual way…but opening a new tab on his browser. He made a search for rings, then clicking on the website that seemed the most promising.

Engagement rings…they had plenty to choose from, with rich jewels and impressive and lasting steel. It would surely be expensive, but Ludwig smiled uncaring.

There was a particular golden one with an impressive ruby that took his interest, bookmarking to check later. He was determined to make that purchase soon.

Sure, they hadn’t even been half a year together. Perhaps he was moving too quickly, perhaps he was getting his hopes up way too high. But when already they were so dedicated, had already been in love for so long before, when there was no one else that could compete, compare and he wanted to show his determination to stay…then so ask. Feliciano had the chance to say no, and they could talk about waiting, and he wouldn’t mind at all. Still, as he entered the cow stable, both creatures looking comfortable in their hay, the air the perfect heat, he felt sure, confident, hopeful and looking forward to the future.