#usukholiday2018

[lily-clare]

@usuknetwork Secret Santa gift for @levyfai with the prompt Cardverse au getting ready for the winter ball

Other version under the cut:

[aphvanya]

this is for @anglaland!! i was your secret santa this year! i decided to draw them out on an evening shopping trip merry christmas and happy holidays!

[midnightziege]

Here is my present for @kingarthur-kirkland​ as part of the @usuknetwork​ secret santa!

I hope you like it! These prompts were really fun to draw!

[amaranthinecanicular]

hardly a time for sobriety

Maybe too much eggnog? Maybe too much eggnog. Alfred, elementary math teacher extraordinaire, has had it bad for the high school AP English teacher ever since he subbed in for the elementary school librarian, but this is definitely the first time he’s told anyone about it. It’s also the first time he’s described it as having “the hottie hot hots for Professor Snack over there.” 

[Written for @sterndecorum (a million years late, as per usual) for the 2018 @usuknetwork Gift Exchange. I’m so sorry, but I hope you enjoy! Happy belated holidays!]

....

Maybe too much eggnog? Maybe too much eggnog. Like, Alfred has had it bad for the high school AP English teacher ever since he subbed in for the elementary school librarian, but this is definitely the first time he’s told anyone about it. It’s also the first time he’s described it as having “the hottie hot hots for Professor Snack over there.” Elizaveta, who teaches art, looks delighted. Kiku, the librarian, looks profoundly uncomfortable.

Alfred tries to grimace but it feels kind of sloppy on his face. “Don’t think I meant to say that. Too much eggnog?”

“Too much eggnog,” Kiku confirms. At the same time Elizaveta says, “Are you kidding? Not enough eggnog. I’ve had to watch you pine away every time Kirkland drops off lunch for his brother. You are ending my misery tonight.”

She hands Alfred another plastic cup of ‘nog while Kiku makes a despairing noise in the back of his throat. It is possible that Elizaveta has also had too much eggnog. Sober Alfred would probably be embarrassed to learn that his affections have been transparent for the last several months. Sober Alfred might also call it quits on the alcohol before he really makes a poor decision amongst all his coworkers and peers. Sober Alfred has left the building, thank god, because that guy is a drag.

He takes some fortifying gulps of his new drink and spies stealthily--he hopes it’s stealthy, he sure feels stealthy--on Arthur from across the faculty room, which was definitely not meant to accommodate this many drunk teachers. He’s chatting with the high school French teacher and the severe-looking middle school principal. (The holiday party is district wide this year. It’s a cutbacks thing.) It’s hard to tell if Arthur is enjoying the conversation or not. Mostly he’s scowling. It’s ten kinds of adorable. So is his stodgy old man sweater vest. Alfred wants to kiss his eyebrows.

“Please never say that again,” says Kiku in a strained voice. Whoops, that last part may have been out loud. Too much eggnog. He takes another sip anyway.

“Hey, s’your fault for calling in sick that day,” he says. September fourteenth, two PM, Alfred will never forget it. He walked the kids from math to the library and he thought hey it’s that one grumpy asshole and then the grumpy asshole spoke all soft and sweet to the kids and he read Charlotte’s Web so pretty and Alfred’s next thought was oh shit oh fuck I’m going to marry him someday. And that was completely sober. “Shame on you for marathoning the Silent Hill games so early in the school year. And also for not inviting me. No one but y’rself to blame.”

Kiku takes a grim sip of his tea. Yeesh, tea at a holiday party. “I am aware.”

Just then the French teacher laughs loudly enough for Alfred to hear it. A hand lands on Arthur’s shoulder. In the fuzzy recesses of his brain two stray thoughts connect with a spark: laughing and touching counts as flirting. The French teacher flirting with Arthur. The French teacher marrying Arthur, which would seriously impede Alfred’s plans to marry Arthur. The French teacher must die.

Well, okay, no, he doesn’t have to die die. But Alfred has to kill his chances. He mumbles something to Elizaveta and Kiku that might be an explanation or might just be drunken gibberish and he marches off in Arthur’s direction. The middle school principal is gone, off talking to a guy Alfred thinks might be the middle school Italian teacher. He wants to put his hand on Arthur’s shoulder like the French teacher did, but he doesn’t trust his buzzy fingers. His hands end up in his pockets instead. “Hey there, Mr. Kirkland. Fancy meeting you here,”

Arthur turns. So does the French teacher, but Alfred notices that peripherally. Maybe Arthur’s scowl softens a little to see him. Maybe that’s just Alfred’s drunk brain talking.

“Francis,” Arthur says to the French teacher, “Isn’t your presence required elsewhere?”

“And where would that be, mon cher?” says Francis, with a leer in Alfred’s direction. Arthur grits his teeth.

“Literally anywhere else.”

“Ah, yes, of course. An appointment I cannot miss. Joyeux Noël, my friends!” He flounces toward the refreshment table, and gives Alfred a wink on the way. It might be flirty, or it might be… a good luck wink? Is that a thing? He doesn’t really know, and he really doesn’t care. Arthur returns his attention to Alfred with a raised brow.

“Mr. Jones. Glad to see you’ve decided a conversation with me is preferable to staring.”

Ouch. Not so stealthy. “Ha, yeah. Didn’t want to interrupt earlier. So, are you and Mr. Frenchy an item, or?”

Okay, wow, not what he meant to say. Bad eggnog, no more eggnog. Luckily Arthur seems too appalled by the suggestion itself to be creeped out by Alfred suggesting it. “Good lord, no. Francis and I? The mere thought is repulsive. I may gag.”

“Oof, wouldn’t want that. Glad to hear it, though. I was worried.”

Arthur’s eyes snap up. Too strong? Maybe.

“Were you?” he says, and whoa, not too strong, apparently. Not too strong at all.

Alfred, smooth and confident in the way of the inebriated, says, “Wanna go to IHOP?”

....

The truth is it’s only half Kiku’s fault. The library incident wasn’t the first time Alfred met Arthur. For the past two years Peter Kirkland has been in Alfred’s rotating fourth and fifth grade math classes—a good kid, high energy and real bright—which meant parent teacher conferences with his brother and guardian. It’s… safe to say they didn’t get off on the right foot. Alfred has handled rude parents before. Whatever! Usually his incredible charm and wit were enough to makeup for it. But no, not with Mr. Kirkland. Mr. Kirkland was tenured, he had years of experience on naive little green-gilled elementary teacher Alfred, and in his professional opinion problem children like Peter needed to be disciplined rather than coddled, and quite frankly he did not think much of Alfred’s nonsensical, feel-good, soft-bellied teaching methods.

In response Alfred had maybe called him a crabby old geezer, and maybe mentioned something about teaching an old dog new tricks, and maybe that was all the PG version. Arthur Kirkland was nothing more to Alfred than a grumpy asshole. Albeit a grump with great bone structure and a sexy accent.

And then Arthur subbed in for Kiku, and everything was different.

“Here we are!”

Alfred sweeps into a bow and scoots Arthur’s chair out for him because he’s a gentleman. (At this time of night the IHOP is a seat yourself kind of establishment.) There’s cheery Christmas music playing over the speakers. Alfred wanted the corner booth—much more romantic—but some gooey-eyed teens are hogging it. Stupid gooey-eyed teens.

“Here we are indeed,” says Arthur. He’s eyeing the vinyl cushion like it carries a venereal disease. “Honestly, half the reason I agreed to come was because I wanted to see if you were taking the piss. But lo and behold: The International House of Pancakes.” He takes a seat. Gingerly. “That name always struck me as overly dignified for this establishment.”

“Hey, don’t hate. I eat breakfast here once a week.” The elementary school is across town, but it’s worth the drive. Thank god the high school is within walking distance. He adds, “So, that was only half the reason, huh? What was the other half?”

Arthur taps the side of his nose. “I’m very certain I’m not drunk enough to tell you.”

Alfred remembers, suddenly, what drink Arthur had been nursing at the Christmas party. He grins a slow grin. “You were spiking your tea, Artie?”

Arthur flushes, maybe because he’s a little drunker than Alfred thought, but probably because Alfred just called him Artie. Good idea, drunk Alfred.

“Only because conversation with Francis was otherwise intolerable. I much prefer talking to you.” He gets a look on his face like he just heard what he said, and he flushes even prettier. “Don’t get the wrong idea. A Christmas ham would be a better conversation partner than that frog.”

Any further research into how pink Alfred can make Arthur blush is interrupted by the arrival of their waitress. She’s new, a friendly girl named Michelle who smiles a lot and takes quick notes. By the time she’s got their order—a tea for Arthur, a little of everything for Alfred—Alfred has learned that she’s studying speech pathology, she’s home for holiday break, and that she got her sister a dinosaur building kit for Christmas.

“Oh sweet, what kind of dinosaur?” says Alfred.

“A ceratosaurus,” says Michelle.

“Ooh, deep cut! Nice!”

They high five. Alfred asks, “You don’t have any eggnog, do you?”

“I’m afraid not. We have eggnog pancakes, though, how does that sound?”

Arthur gags quietly. Alfred ignores this. “Sounds awesome! I’ll have an order of those too.”

After she walks away Alfred addresses the look on Arthur’s face. “Yes, professor?”

“You want to drink more of that swill?” he says, all dubious like.

“Dude! Eggnog is the drink of the season.”

“There are many drinks of the season. Sherry. Scotch. Brandy. Tea.”

“By that logic you’ll spend the whole holiday break completely sloshed.”

Arthur chuckles. “The holidays are hardly a time for sobriety.”

Alfred can’t really argue with that. “I’m pretty sure you drink tea all the time.”

“Because tea is a drink for every season.”

This is the moment that Michelle returns with the tea, because apparently she has a great sense of dramatic timing. Arthur prepares the cup and smirks at Alfred over the rim, as though that proves his point at all, and all Alfred can think about is how tea is a much more charming drink in Arthur’s hand than it is in Kiku’s. Alfred wants to know more about the kind of tea he drinks. He wants to learn how to make the perfect cup, so he can make it for Arthur every day. He wants to know Arthur’s opinion on coffee. What his favorite food is. If he likes cats or dogs. He looks like a cat person. What was his home life like? Where in Britain did he grow up? Did he always want to be a teacher? Alfred wants to know… everything. He never wants to stop learning about him.

He says, “Tell me more about yourself.”

Arthur goes very still. “Why?”

“Because this is a date.” Sober Alfred is pretty direct. Drunk Alfred isn’t much different.

Now Arthur goes very red. “I’m afraid there’s not much to tell.”

“That can’t be true. Why’d you come to America? Got tired of jolly old England?”

“My goodness, no. My heart will always belong to my dearest Albion.” Alfred suspects that’s an old nerdy name for England, but he can’t be sure. He’s a math whiz, not a history buff. “No, it was just typical family drama. Peter and I hopped across the pond to escape it. All very British, very boring.”

Maybe Arthur is a little more guarded as he says that. And wistful. The peppy Jingle Bell Rock has transitioned to the crooning I’ll Be Home For Christmas and suddenly Alfred is very sad. He wants to say so. He wants to say that Arthur’s family doesn’t deserve him or Peter, and that he can tell Alfred anything, everything, because he’ll never hurt him the way they did. But even smashed he can tell that Arthur doesn’t want to talk about it, so instead he says, “How is Peter?”

Arthur’s face softens. “A wee little shite, as per usual. He’s at a sleepover right now. But he’s doing better in maths, at least.”

He raises his cup in a small, half-ironic toast to Alfred’s awesome teaching skills. Alfred tries not to preen and isn’t so sure he succeeds.  “Yeah, well, he’s a good kid. They all are. They make my job easy.”

“I doubt that,” Arthur snorts. “But you are Peter’s favorite teacher, which is saying something. He absolutely hated maths before you came along.” His tone turns thoughtful. He rests his chin in his palm. “You’re good with him. Good with all of them, I see it when I drop off Peter’s lunch. Though I maintain that you could stand to be a little more disciplinary.”

“You’re good with them too,” Alfred says, high on a cloud of Arthur’s regard. “You subbed in for Kiku once. I saw you. It was really sweet, and I realized…”

This is what Alfred realized after he saw Arthur in the library: Mr. Tenured Teacher, Sir High and Mighty, Cynicism and Discipline Incarnate, is a huge fucking softie. He quilts, crochets, and embroiders. (Thank you Kiku, mutual friend with all the secrets.) He’s hard on his students but he refuses to let any of them fail. (Also Kiku.) He criticizes Peter and the quality of his education because he cares—like, really really cares. Alfred picked up on that himself. He brings the kid homemade lunch every day. He leaves him notes in his lunchbox. Alfred’s not proud to admit it but he peeked over Peter’s shoulder the one time he pulled one out in math. It read: Always cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough. I love you. Alfred is willing to bet every note has some banal tidbit of advice and closes out the same way. If he and Arthur got together, would Arthur slip him notes, too? I love you.

“You realized?”

Arthur is watching him, has been watching him, and his eyes are super green, all bright and Christmassy under the IHOP fluorescents. Alfred is pretty sure the teens in the corner booth are watching them now but he’s also pretty sure he doesn’t care. There are so many things he could say and they all crowd together in his throat, vying for favor. In the time it takes for him to pick the perfect one Michelle arrives with the food, and the moment passes.

A veritable feast of greasy breakfast foods lands on the table: pancakes, waffles, eggs. Bacon and sausage. Various assortments of fruit and butter and jam. Alfred nudges forward his eggnog pancakes. “Want a bite?”

Arthur grimaces. “Absolutely not. That looks utterly unappetizing.”

Alfred will not deny this. Most of the food is green for some Grinch promotional thing IHOP is doing, but hey, at least it’s festive. And delicious. Alfred says so.

“No thank you.” Arthur’s stomach says otherwise. “Well. Those eggs look edible, I suppose.”

They eat (Alfred eats, Arthur pecks) and they chat, and it’s magical. Arthur tells funny stories about Peter’s terrible twos, grudgingly and then not so grudgingly, and Alfred talks about his brother and his totally-not-pot farm in Canada.

He’s finally sobering up—all the greasy food helps—and the night never gets any less magical. It feels more magical somehow.

He says, “So, have I made you an IHOP convert?”

Arthur sighs, theatrically put upon. “I suppose it’s charming, in a slovenly way. Something like you.”

Alfred rolls his eyes. “Ooh, you’re making me blush. Tell me more.”

But Arthur doesn’t tell him more because he’s too busy giving the stink eye to something over Alfred’s shoulder. Ah. The booth teens. Alfred gives a very extremely subtle glance back… yeah, wow, they are going at it. Teenage hormones are no joke.

“Kids these days, honestly. They should be studying,” Arthur seethes.

“For what? It’s Friday and classes are over next week,” says Alfred, but before he can finish his sentence Arthur has struck like a god damn cobra and stolen a bit of hashbrown and chucked it at the booth. It occurs to Alfred that Arthur might still be pretty hammered. How much rum did he put in his tea, for real?

It plops square in a mug of hot chocolate. At a loss for what else to do, Alfred kind of shriek laughs. “Oh my god, are you twelve?”

He dares a peek back at the spluttering teenagers and then back to Arthur and--Arthur is shrugging at the teens and pointing at Alfred. “You are twelve! Traitor!”

He spoons whipped cream off the top of his hot chocolate and daubs Arthur’s nose with it. For a second Arthur looks fit to bust, and sure a drunken temper tantrum sounds cute but it might lose Alfred a chance at a second date. Then Arthur reaches over the table, scoops the whole pile of whipped cream from the plate of pancakes with his bare hand, and smears it all over Alfred’s face.

While Arthur is cackling, Alfred says, “Marry me.”

Arthur stops cackling. He stares, and under the weight of it Alfred sobers up the rest of the way all at once. Did he just ruin everything? Of course he did. Drunk Alfred, that dumbass, always ruins everything and now he’s going to die old and alone, dreaming about what could have been if only he hadn’t asked Arthur Kirkland to marry him in an IHOP.

“Snrk,” says Arthur.

That’s the sound he makes—snrk. Then he’s snorting, then he’s laughing, and it’s inelegant and undignified and Alfred is in love.

“So is that a yes?” he says, and Arthur gives him a narrow look. He wipes his face with a napkin—Alfred belatedly follows suit—and flags Michelle down for the check.

Arthur scoffs, “You think I’d say yes to a proposal on a first date? In the International House of Pancakes?”

He’s not mad. Alfred can hardly believe it. He still has a chance. “Hey, depends on the date.”

They split the bill. Arthur is the faster tipper so in return Alfred pays for the Uber. The teens are gone from the booth, though Alfred didn’t see them leave. They’re not in the parking lot either, which is good, because it would be super awkward to have to wait for the Uber with them.

The air is cold. They’re standing very near. The sky is heavy and close with clouds, but Arthur is watching it like he might see the stars beyond. After a second, Alfred does too.

He says to the sky, “Wasn’t a yes, but it wasn’t a no, either.”

And Arthur says to the sky, “Don’t push your luck, Mr. Jones. We hardly know each other. Even you can’t be that idealistic.”

There’s not enough liquid bravery left in Alfred’s veins to tell Arthur that he is.

The Uber arrives. Arthur offers to share, but Alfred lives too far from the high school to leave his car there. He opens the door for Arthur. He closes the door for Arthur. It’s stupid but the thought of saying goodbye to him right now—not forever, not even for a whole weekend—is breaking his heart. He doesn’t know how to end tonight. Doesn’t know if they’re leaving on a good note or a bad one.

“Ask me again.”

The window is rolled down. Arthur is watching him. His eyes are glowing and his cheeks are pink and his breath is misting in the air, so Alfred can see the exact shape of his words when he says, “Later. Much, much later. Many dates from now. In a restaurant that lives up to its name, and preferably when we’re not both completely crocked. Ask me again. Maybe then I’ll be as idealistic as you.”

Alfred can’t think of a single thing to say and so he doesn’t. He leans down and Arthur leans up and the angle is awkward because Arthur is dangling half out a window but Alfred is certain he’s never had a more perfect kiss in all his life.

Joy is light, effervescent. It fizzes and bubbles and buoys Alfred and he wonders if there was alcohol in those eggnog pancakes after all. He watches the tail lights twinkle off into the night, and then he turns to start the trek back to the high school. He’s going to have to wait out the last of the buzz in his car, but he can’t bring himself to feel too bothered. It’s the holidays, after all. Hardly a time for sobriety. Overhead, it begins to snow.

[kingarthur-kirkland]

@usuknetwork

Here’s my drawing for the USUK Holiday Exchange for @imaginationmademelove !

The prompts that I got were kiss, love, and established relationship, so I tried to include elements of all of them! I hope you like it!

[naueth]

“Merry Christmas, 

from your husband back on Earth”

Hello, Hello! @lily-clare I am your Holiday Exchange Partner for @usuknetwork ‘s current winter event! I chose to draw your first pick, Arthur’s first xmas away from astronaut hubby! 

I loved this prompt, I’ve always wanted to try this AU but never could find the time. I just imagined Arthur walking along the streets on Christmas constantly being reminded by his S/O through posters of him in the storefronts showcasing his latest expedition. I can imagine him switching from being pissed off at him smiling in the poster, to being sad he’s not here with him, to wishing for his safety on his current journey. I think the back of someone can be more telling then their front at times….

I really hope you like it! Merry Christmas!

[chibiauthorchan]

Lost and Found

I just want to start this off by saying sorry. I was told I should get this done by the end of the month and here I am on the last day of January. (Part of this might be because of who I’m writing this for. So much respect to you! Regardless, this fic was written for @katie-hime as a makeup. Sorry to hear your last Secret Santa wasn’t able to come through. Side note, I heard from a little birdie that you like soulmate AUs so I decided to combine your prompt of surprise visits with this version. I hope you can enjoy this and excuse how late this is.

Word Count: 1,404 Warnings: None! Summary: When everything you lose  Written for: @katie-hime as a part of the Secret Santa put on by @usuknetwork​

Alfred was five when he found out who his soulmate is. That’s when it started happening; earlier than most people. In his world when you come of a certain age whenever you lose something your soulmate finds it. Usually, this starts sometime in a person’s late teens. But the universe had different plans. 

From an early age, Alfred was quite the romantic. Growing up on classic animated Disney movies, superhero stories, and other fantasy worlds he’d developed this picture perfect idea of what love is supposed to be. Perhaps that’s why the universe gave him his soulmate so early. Little Alfred put labels on all of his favorite things so that if he lost them his soulmate would find them. He wrote down everything from his favorite things to his home town. Eventually, his mother bought him custom labels to put on his things to save on packing tape.

Whenever he lost something Alfred would wait eagerly to find that it had been returned to him in the mail or handed back to him at school. When his mom found his lost toys it was understandably disappointed, but he was determined that it would happen someday. 

It finally happened when his spaceship went missing and no one could find it. His father offered to get him a new one, but Alfred knew it was with his soulmate and he’d get it back. So he waited. And waited. And waited. Fall leaves fell to the ground and frost littered the yard. Alfred waited until December 25th. That Christmas morning he was handed a box wrapped in simple, plain green paper without a label. Inside was his spaceship and a letter. That is how Alfred learned who his soulmate is. Another young boy. He lived in England and was named Arthur. The reason it took him so long was by the time it made it to him the label that had been applied years ago had faded. Ever since that day, Christmas was extra special to the young American boy. From that day forward the two exchanged letters, then emails, to texts, and finally video calls. Years had gone by, but Alfred’s sense of overly dramatic, cinema level cheesy romanticism hadn’t faded.

Fourteen long years had passed. Now 19 and independent no one could stop him from planning on jumping the Atlantic for Christmas. The plan was to fly out on the cheapest flight the week before the big day and surprise Arthur when he got there. The cheapest flight turned out to be on Christmas Eve. Good since there would be more surprise factor. He’d figured this all out months before him. Everything was going to be perfect. There was only one kink in the plan. Alfred was still prone to losing things. The flight left early in the morning and landed early Christmas Day. It had a lot of stops, but it’d be worth it. The airport was a bit of a drive away, not to mention he had to be at the gate a few hours early; but it was fine because he could sleep on the planes. So still a bit sleepy Alfred showed up at the airport before the sun was up. Standing at the desk when he was asked to show his boarding pass Alfred reached into his pocket for the ticket he’d just printed out only to find his pocket had a hole.  He’d lost his ticket. Which meant if he didn’t find it soon, Arthur would.

That woke Alfred up right away. He retraced his steps and searched everywhere he’d been. It wasn’t far between the do it yourself check in and the desk you had to hand over the pass to; but apparently a lot of other people thought taking the Christmas Eve flight was the best idea and the place was crowded. Scrambling around Alfred looked spurred on past his fatigue by the fear this would ruin the surprise. But when his phone rang he knew it was too late. 

He answered with a nervous laugh, an exaggerated, “Heeeeeeeey, Artieeeee. You usually don’t call this early. Is something wrong? Not having a Merry Christmas Eve? Miss me too much? What’s up?” Alfred hoped his copious questions would distract from the reason for the call. It didn’t work.

“Love, why did I find a plane ticket from your side of the pond to mine?” His tone was calm, not accusatory or upset. It was a simple question, but nowhere near the reaction Alfred had been hoping for. 

“Surprise?” It was worth the shot. But the long silence over the line made it clear Arthur wasn’t crying tears of joy like he thought. “I’m sorry Art, you know I lose things at the worst possible time. But hey, now that I have you on the line you can explain to the lady at the check-in counter that your soulmate is a clumsy, forgetful, dork and that you have the ticket. They might let me on the plane, it is Christmas Eve.”

Alfred could hear Arthur’s eye roll in his sigh, but he agreed and the phone was handed over. Stateside Alfred checked to make sure he had his Switch in his bag, had his carry on packed with clothes in case his luggage was lost, and emergency cash in case he lost his wallet. Over in Europe Arthur was looking around to see if Alfred had lost anything else while he explained their situation. They were lucky that most Americans (Alfred included) were easily charmed by his accent.

Alfred was handed back his phone by the woman asked for his passport. Now in a pretty good mood, he plunged his hand into his pocket only to find that wasn’t there either. He paled instantly at the realization and right on cue Arthur spoke up over the line.

“It looks like you forgot something else, Love,” Arthur had just found a US passport inside his own jacket pocket. Looking through it with a heavy sigh. “Hand the telly back over to the nice check-in attendant Alfred.” Obeying right away the phone was handed over. He scanned every little movement on that woman’s face trying to gauge her emotion. By the time she was nodding along, it didn’t look good. 

“Sir,” she started, handing the phone back, “I’m afraid I can’t let you through without a passport. You wouldn’t make it past security if I allowed you to pass,” 

Alfred’s heart sank. This was the only time he’d get the chance to see Arthur until the summer. He didn’t want to wait that long, and this was supposed to be perfect. Christmas was theirs. Unable to say much he just thanked the woman for her help and went back to talking with his soulmate. Or rather, listening to him.

“Go on home, Love. I’ll see you soon enough,” Arthur’s voice was still so reassuring to him. They talked as he drove home for as long as they could. When he walked through his front door Alfred made a beeline to the couch and passed out. 

When he woke up though, the smell of tea was in the air and the lights he’d neglected earlier had been turned on. Alfred got up and followed the smell to the kitchen, only to find his soulmate making tea, humming an old folk tune. Needless to say, Alfred tackled Arthur in a hug.

The Brit flushed bright but laughed as well. He squeezed Alfred back and only tried to squirm away when the American started to press kisses to every bit of pale, lightly freckled skin he could see. 

“How’d you get here? Everything was booked last I checked?” Alfred was excited and he wasn’t going to let Arthur go for a second. The universe let them keep their special Christmas magic. Everything was perfect again. 

“I was planning my own surprise trip. I’m here until New Year's day. Though I suppose we shouldn’t keep trying to surprise each other. Otherwise, we’d be in different countries yet again,” Arthur was content to just stay in Alfred’s arms, feeling a sort of bliss he’d only every feel when around his soulmate. They snuggled together on the couch after that, cozied up under a blanket together. 

With Alfred’s sleep deprivation and Arthur’s jetlag, they fell asleep there in the living room tangled together. The next day was the best Christmas Alfred ever had, including his fifth.

[usuknetwork]

The USUK Network 2018 Holiday Exchange

It’s that time of the year again!

What is this event? This is a secret santa type of event where users are randomly assigned a person with whom to exchange gifts to. The “secret” part of the event involves the gift giver being kept a “secret” until the time of the exchange. This is meant to be an event to give support and love to all USUK fan creators! This is also a Holiday related event so everyone is encouraged to make content for the season!

The application can be found ( HERE )

More information can be found ( HERE )

Applications are open from November 6 to November 20! Please make sure to reblog so everyone can see and join!

This picture was provided with the generous help of Diurnal Days

[nish-e-r-r-o-r-neesh]

heyy @owynsama here’s my gift for you for the @usuknetwork 2018 Christmas Gift exchange!  I decided to incorporate all three prompts, with both of them going christmas shopping, all snuggly and warm, and happening upon a bunch of baked goods~. Alfred’s pretty hyped over them. Hope you like it, and Merry Christmas! ^_^

[anthemsreturn-writes]

To Set Aside One’s Pride

Hi!!! I’m really sorry I wasn't able to get this done by Christmas, things were hectic, no excuse for that! This is my Secret Santa gift for @forloveoflibertea for the @usuknetwork event. I went with the magical strike kiss under the mistletoe prompt combined with the optional omegaverse twist! I hope you like it!!! :))))) 

Word Count: 3,109 

Warnings: They think they hate each other at first, but they secretly have those feelings. 

Summary: The company Christmas party was coming up, and a certain Frenchman has a plan to get Alfred and Arthur together in an unconventional way. 

--- 

"Alfred, if you don't leave my office right now, we'll have a big problem!" Arthur, the quickly rising star omega of the company, bit out, venom in his voice and poison in his glare. His scent was spiked with irritation.

"HA! You know what else is big?" Alfred goaded, knowing Arthur couldn't do anything to him without getting fired, what with Alfred being the company president's son. He almost smelled more obnoxious than he was acting, their scents combining to make the room unbearable.

There was a loud groan before Arthur's fluffy blond head hit the table. "Why do you have to be such a child?" He ground out before looking up, cold bottle green eyes locking with the alpha's bemused pacific blue behind his thin-wired frames.

Simply smirking, Alfred "aw'd" at him condescendingly. "You're just jealous, baby." There was an odd spike in his scent at the end of his sentence, which Arthur completely ignored.

Twitching, he looked about ready to murder Alfred. "Do not call me that!" he growled out, the blush creeping into his cheeks saying otherwise.

Holding up his hands in a placating gesture and laughing obnoxiously loud, Alfred spun on his heels, his long, feathered black coat swishing behind him. "Whatever… sweetie."

Arthur barely restrained himself from throwing his metal paperweight at the brat's head. Alfred's only four years younger than him, and by no means unintelligent, yet he acts like an imbecile or an immature hooligan. The dyed purple stripe in his hair and a temporary purple star tattoo on his cheek only add to this effect. Convincing himself he was angry at Alfred and not at all flustered by the pet names, Arthur quickly got back into the throes of his work, ignoring the silence and not at all wishing he'd come back.

-------

Back in his private, top floor office, Alfred was feeling incredibly proud of himself. He considers his work day to be wasted if he doesn't bug the adorably grumpy Arthur Kirkland at least once. Just as he himself was about to open up some of his own work-related documents, there was a knock on his door. Fixing a professional smile on his face and wiping off the self-satisfied smirk, he called out, "Come in!"

The door opened halfway. "Ah! Mon Ami, how are you?"

Smile dropping off his face, Alfred sighed gustily. His cheerful scent mellowed. At least the man was wearing a normal three-piece suit, meaning he wasn't in the mood to be putting on a pink frilly dress and taking his department on strike.

"What do you want, Francis?"

The man came in uninvited, shutting the door behind himself. The beta strutted towards Alfred's desk, flipping his long blond hair over his shoulder idly. Then he leaned on the desk with one hand. "Oh, nothing really, I just wanted to ask you how things are going between you and Mr. Eyebrows lately," he asked, his tone suggestive.

Alfred arched a brow. "What's there to tell?" He asked dryly, ignoring the jab at Arthur's rather over-sized eyebrows. They're actually kinda cute, not that he would ever admit it.

Leaning in, Francis chuckled. "Oh, but everyone outside of his office heard the little spat between the two of you. What was that about, what was it again? "Babe" and "Sweetie"?"

Alfred glowered at him, scent and mood darkening. "I'm not in the mood, Francis." The man was ruining his good mood by suggesting there was more to his teasing Artie earlier.

He smiled lecherously. "So you're not denying calling the formidable Brit those pet names?"

"... Get out, Francis."

"Wait, wait, wait! I just wanted to make sure, now onto the actual topic at hand! I propose a bet, one that will help solve the, how shall I say, tension between the two of you?"

"... I said get out."

"Just hear me out! I know the two of you can't possibly bear to spend more than a few minutes together at a time, so this bet would be a good way to one-up him!"

Alfred didn't want to admit his intrigue. "What are you going on about?"

"Before I say anything, just know that Arthur has already agreed to this!"

"And?"

"It's simple, really. I'll handcuff the two of you together-"

"Not interested."

"Hear me out! You will both have a key to the handcuffs. The conditions are that you have to spend the entire Christmas party together on a fake date, and whoever uncuffs himself from the other first loses! And if by some miracle, you manage to go the whole party without doing so, the work environment will be much improved because you will both have learned how to cooperate!" He finished triumphantly.

Alfred regarded him warily. "And why would I agree to this?"

"Because Arthur has already done so. He bet me one hundred dollars you'd never accept."

Alfred pushed a hand through his caramel blond hair. He considered it for a minute, looking off to the side through his floor-to-ceiling windows at the busy New York streets below. It would be nice to be with the omega during the party; after all, he doesn't have a date-- it wouldn't be a date, he'd just get to tease him the entire time! Artie would get so mad and he'd come out on top like an alpha should! Hopefully, Artie won't uncuff himself at the drop of a hat though… he'll have to tone it down, but, he'd get to spend some time with him-- teasing him! That is… Finally, his resolve hardened and he turned back to Francis, nodding his head. "He deserves to lose some money," was all he said at first. Francis just smiled brightly, knowingly for some reason, because of course there's nothing more to this. "But if I win, you have to promise to not go on strike for an entire year."

An evil glint in his eye, Francis nodded. "You have my word, Mon Ami… Oh, and one more thing. If you both make it the whole party, neither of you win or lose, so expect a strike, because no one wants to work before New Years."

Alfred smiled, somehow managing to look wicked and innocent at the same time, and clasped his hands together. "Good. Now, get out of my office."

Chuckling, Francis nodded his head, beginning his retreat. "Au revoir!" he called out, shutting the door behind himself with a flourish. As he made his way down the hall, he thought, Now to just get Arthur to agree.

-------

Why did I agree to this? Arthur bemoaned, frustrated with this being the fifth time during the party a coworker asked why he was handcuffed to Alfred, of all people! Arthur was quick to reassure them it was just for a bet that he himself would be winning. Each time he had to reiterate it he got more and more frustrated, his tea and roses scent turning sour and lemony, especially with the git just grinning down at him instead of helping explain. Alfred, meanwhile, was having the time of his life watching Artie suffer, but a large part of him wished he'd smell sweet while they were together. So sweet, just for him… Uh… Alfred didn't know what to make of that thought. But as the party wore on and the gossip spread, people stopped questioning them and they were left to enjoy the party as much as they were able to in each other's immediate presence. To Arthur's surprise, however, the whole event was going rather… smoothly. Sure, he was still teased by the utter pillock he was joined to, but Alfred became less and less obnoxious as time wore on. He became almost… charming? No, not charming, just more bearable, that was it! Of course, that was it… Right.

"Oh! Hi guys, I see you two must be having fun!" Arthur's cheerful coworker and office friend, an alpha woman named Erzebet, walked up to them with a smile and a wave. Just as Arthur was about to reply he found himself gently pushed behind Alfred. He frowned, scent reflecting his confusion, about to ask him what his problem was when Alfred spoke.

"Hey, Erzebet, nice to see you! Where's your mate? You should go find him." Alfred spoke tersely and authoritatively, and Arthur was honestly quite bewildered before anger took over. Who in the world does he think he is?!

Blinking in slight shock, Erzebet smiled and took a slow step back from the two of them. "That's a good idea! I don't know where he is right now, so I'd better go. I'll leave the two of you to it then." With a nod to Alfred and an astute glance at Arthur, Erzebet walked away. Arthur turned to Alfred, livid.

"What the hell is wrong with you?!" He shrieked quietly, trying not to make too much of a scene, despite his distress coloring the room.

"What's wrong with you? You were just going to let her flirt with you?!" Alfred smelled of acid and charcoal, and it was burning Arthur's nose, only distressing him further. Alfred finally noticed and attempted to calm his scent back to its usual fire smoke and sandalwood.

Calming slightly and face twisting trying to comprehend the stupidity of his statement, Arthur then pursed his lips with a frown. "Maybe losing one hundred dollars is worth it," he bit out acidly. He was reaching into his pocket when Alfred grabbed his hand and pulled it away.

Alfred quickly backtracked. "Wait, Arthur, come on, I just… I didn't mean to upset you, I--"

"Didn't mean to upset me?! By being rude to and chasing away my friend? I find that hard to believe. Do you want me to be miserable working here? Is that why you always bother me? … Do you truly hate me that much?" Arthur's rage-fueled voice quieted down as he spoke until it was almost hard to hear him over the noise of the party. Tears poked into the corners of his which he valiantly fought from spilling.

Panicking, Alfred's scent turned tart and vinegar, causing Arthur to crinkle his nose and start to panic in response. Noticing, Alfred turned it gentle and comforting, surprising Arthur, the sudden change causing tears to start to spill. "What? No! Artie, no, look, I-I just… look, can we just forget about this? I'll make it up to you, I swear! Just please sweetie, please don't cry." Without thinking, he wrapped the omega in his arms, his left and Arthur's right pressed awkwardly between them.

In Arthur's ensuing shock, the tears vanished and his scent sweetened against his will. That was the first time Alfred had ever called him a pet name that wasn't intended as an insult or to rile him up. It was… genuine? Was he honestly trying to comfort him? Regardless of the alpha’s intentions, which were obvious to everyone else in the room, Arthur was indeed comforted and, without hesitating, buried his face in Alfred's chest and felt calmed by the hand gently rubbing the center of his back. Alfred, for one, had never realized just how soft Arthur was, how delicate, and how he absolutely needed a hero like him to protect him.

Once Arthur was calmed down (a little while still after that, because the hug was… nice) Alfred led him away from the majority of the party and to a back corner where he could apologize and tell Artie why, exactly, he did what he did. He had only just realized it himself.

Arthur was surprisingly compliant as Alfred led him through the crowd until they reached a deserted niche. Then Alfred, instinctively, nudged Arthur into the corner and blocked it off with his body, keen on protecting the man he now viewed as a vulnerable, sweet, cute omega who he has the sole job of protecting. Alfred still warred with his feelings internally, but it was too late. For better or worse, the alpha inside of him wants this omega, like a light-bulb turned on in his head, or more aptly, he opened his eyes to see the light had always been on.

Arthur looked up at Alfred questioningly but unprotestingly. His emotions were going through a similar whirlwind, and he suddenly didn't hate, or rather "hate," Alfred as he previously thought he did.

Alfred sighed and ran his free hand through his hair, scent tumultuous. "Baby…" he started off, "I'm sorry I upset you, and for chasing away your friend. I know it's not an excuse, but, the thought of another alpha being, closer to you than I am, I dunno, it just, triggered? Something inside of me, that I can't really explain. No, wait, I can, I--" mustering up his courage, he sighed before smiling and looking down into Arthur's beautiful green eyes, scent evening out pleasantly. "I like you, Artie," he said wistfully. Arthur had been confused throughout his speech before his eyes widened and his heart clenched in a way that warmed his whole body. His lips trembled, and he looked the picture of a deer frozen in headlights. Alfred moved his hand to gently cup Arthur's cheek, stroking it softly, before realizing Arthur hadn't replied yet and the touch might be unwanted. He quickly removed his hand, scent sheepish, before Arthur's shocked scent melted into one of unadulterated happiness and he whined softly against his will, embarrassedly, in the back of this throat when Alfred removed his hand. Alfred let out a soft breath, his smile more relaxed and genuine than either his megawatt smile or his smirk. He returned his hand and gently cupped his cheek, waiting for an answer. Arthur didn't know what to say, so he sniffled as tears of happiness blurred his vision and his scent sweetened, smelling of tea, roses, and now rain and honey as well.

"Artie, would you like to go on a proper date with me?" Alfred asked, hoping Arthur would say something. Arthur looked down and wet his lips before nodding, looking up with a small but pleased smile.

"Yes… I would," he replied softly. "... Although, the rest of this party can be our first date?" He asked, emboldened by his budding and strengthening feelings. He mentally looked back on past meetings with Alfred and realized just how much they were holding back their true feelings, insulting each other so they could ignore how they felt, belittling each other so they could forget how they felt, and convincing themselves they hated each other so they wouldn't ache inside. He realized now the ache was completely gone, and he felt, happy. A thought struck him. "Uhm… wait. Does this mean? That we're…" his voice nearly squeaked on the last word, "boyfriends?"

Alfred's scent became stronger, more protective and proud. "Yeah, it does. I'll take good care of you, Artie, I promise. And I'll make this the best first date you've ever had, alright?"

Arthur nodded meekly, too overwhelmed by his feelings to muster up his usual attitude. Cautiously he leaned forward and Alfred immediately caught him up in a hug. The alpha buried his face into Arthur's hair, gently nosing his locks and smiling, happier than he'd been in a very long time, so long he can't remember a time when he was happier, and this was only the beginning of their relationship. Arthur looked up with a smile when he caught something out of the corner of his eye… Mistletoe. He frowned and pouted, causing Alfred to look up questioningly.

"... You led me over here on purpose," he accused. His mind raced. Alfred had probably set all this up! He purposefully upset him just so he could comfort him, then twist the knife! He had him believing this was genuine! But… it couldn't be, could it? Arthur started to pull away. "I can't believe you planned this! Did you set all this up just to kiss me? Did you honestly think you could trick me like that?! I--"

"I didn't plan this, Artie! I swear! This is all a coincidence. Trust, me, I lo- care about you so much, I'd never do this to upset you," Alfred cut him off before he could go on one of his trademark rants. He didn't even fully know what he'd done wrong this time, but the omega was obviously upset. Arthur's face was tinged slightly red with anger, but he quickly realized he jumped to conclusions. Alfred wasn't leading him on, he wasn't trying to trick him. He actually, really… does care about him. The red turned to one caused by embarrassment. Arthur looked down, pressing his forehead against the collar of Alfred's coat.

"Hey, baby, I swear I didn't plan this, but since it's there… why don't we follow tradition?" He asked with a smirk, scent strengthening. After a second, Arthur looked up from beneath his lashes with a smirk of his own.

"Well, it is tradition," he said angelically, scent spiking mischievously. Grinning, Alfred leaned down and captured Arthur's lips with his own, holding him close and tilting his head to the side so his glasses didn't press into Arthur's cheek. The kiss started out slow until they were enthusiastically moving their lips in tandem. It was sweet, and they both hummed into this kiss before Alfred slipped his tongue out and gently licked the seam of Arthur's lips. With a gasp, he parted them and Alfred tangled their tongues together, stroking Arthur's tongue and hip and the same time. Arthur moaned. He can't remember a kiss that felt this nice. No, better than nice. This felt… right.

Their lips molded together passionately, tongues tangling before they began to run out of air. Arthur finally felt the intense need to breathe and attempted to pull back, but Alfred held him against him a second longer before they pulled away, a string of their mixed saliva connecting them. Arthur wiped it away with the back of his palm, feeling out of breath as a pleased smirk came onto his face. Alfred just smiled, nuzzling their noses together, causing Arthur to involuntarily make a sound close to a giggle that was absolutely not a giggle. He looked down, embarrassed, but Alfred lifted his chin and molded their lips together for another kiss.

-------

At the end of the party, they both uncuffed themselves while Francis smiled, sighing over-dramatically. "Ah, love…" he cooed, both Alfred and Arthur snapping, "Shut it." Four years later, on their wedding day, they both thanked their lucky stars they took a bet for the sole purpose of their own pride and gained more than they could've ever hoped for by putting it aside.

[rantingfangirl]

When A Soul Feels Its Worth

This gift is for @auva as part of the @usuknetwork ‘s UsUk Holiday Exchange 2018. It was a collab between @thenarcolepticone and me. I hope you enjoy!

His arm burned as he raised it, the sleeve of his red sweater tightening around his bicep, the hem at the bottom riding up his stomach. Around him, a crowd flittered by, some offering waves and cheerful hellos, others wiggling the ladder he stood on.

Alfred F. Jones made sure to kick those in the second group.

Just a little higher, and the mistletoe was finally hung. He slowly let it drop from his fingers, its red ribbon swinging precariously on the hook. Letting out a sigh of relief, Alfred slowly scaled down the ladder and glanced upward to admire his work. Mission complete.

Now, onto the next one: finding Arthur. 

His boyfriend had disappeared amongst the throng of partygoers, his impenetrable host mentality having peeked its head the moment guests walked through the door. 

Impenetrable, at least, until the crowd outnumbered him to the point where he couldn’t move without bumping into someone. He was sure Arthur would disappear then, if he hadn’t already.

Alfred started in the kitchen, waiting until the doorway was clear before stepping through. Alfred popped his head in to check, scanning for that gelled head of hair.

Nothing.

He received a few waves for his endeavor, which he made sure to return before leaving. Alfred turned, bumping into someone before he could see who it was.

Oh.

Arthur took a step back, the small frown on his face sending Alfred’s heart racing. He smiled, pulling Arthur into a tight hug, digging his nose into the crook of his neck.

He felt Arthur deflate in his arms, fingers sliding up his sides and settling at the small of his back. “Arthur?”

“Hm?” Arthur’s voice was clear in his ear.

Alfred lifted his head, unable to keep the grin off his face. He had him. “Look up.”

His grin grew even wider when Arthur noticed the mistletoe hanging from the doorway, the one he’d hung just minutes before.

“I’ll be taking that kiss now.” He puckered his lips, leaning in.

Arthur put two fingers to his mouth, softly tsking. “You need to close your eyes first.”

Alfred did as he was told, sealing his eyes shut and waiting expectantly. A hand slid over them, the cold of Arthur’s fingers pressing against his forehead.

The kiss was fleeting, nothing but a small peck, but Alfred kept his eyes closed, hoping for a second, much longer one. When nothing came after a few seconds, he finally opened them.

Arthur was gone.

Fuck.

He turned around, looking to see if he had managed to slip past him. Arthur was certainly thin enough to do so, even with the narrow doorway. The crowd was too dense to catch him, not without getting stopped several times and pulled into hour-long conversations. But hell, Arthur could manage, if he really wanted to.

He wasn’t in the kitchen, nor in the living room or study. So that only left-

Alfred glanced towards the stairs leading to the second floor and continued his search.

It was against a host’s protocol to leave his guests on a different floor, but Alfred supposed that this would be the exception;  Alfred’s entire game plan had changed in the span of 5 seconds ascending the stairs; from getting Arthur to kiss him to just... getting Arthur to come back downstairs.

The sudden abruptness of the kiss and the speed at which he had decided to leave made Alfred absolutely paranoid. He was sure that it was something he did wrong there. Maybe Arthur didn’t like mistletoe... or maybe it was because there had been too many people staring?

Alfred swallowed, hands nervously tugging on the sleeves on his sweater as he finally settled on the thought. That last point might have been it; Arthur was definitely not a fan of crowds and that most definitely could be a factor.

“Stupid...” he murmured to himself, finally reaching the last stair and tunnelling right into the bedroom.

“Arthur?” Alfred knocked on the door, ear leaning onto the wood.

No response.

“Arthur I’m coming in.”

With a wrist turn, Alfred quickly discovered that the doorknob had been unsurprisingly locked to prevent him from entering.

“Arthur, let me in. Come on. I wanna talk. I obviously did something wrong and you’re not telling me what it is.”

There was a shuffling of pillows that was heard, but Alfred hadn’t picked up any other sound following that.

“Arthur, seriously. We have guests downstairs and I would rather not have them see us disagreeing like this.”

The door swung open, causing Alfred to stumble inside with a sudden yelp. Arthur stepped back, clearly not having expected the other to be so close, but the second that Alfred caught his footing, Arthur retreated back onto the bed.

It seemed that Arthur had turned on the television to a random channel to appear like he was occupied in the span of time Alfred was hunting for the Englishman. The screen was showing a clip of A Christmas Story, but with sound so low that Alfred barely picked it up over the talking from downstairs.

“Arthur--”

“If you’re asking for a redo, I’m not giving it to you” said Arthur icily, continuing to watch the practically muted program. “Just bugger off and let me be alone, can’t you? You have more than enough guests downstairs to occupy your time.”

“Arthur,” argued Alfred, leaning back against the door resting on the wall. “Seriously, dude. That’s not fair. You gotta at least tell me what it is that’s bothering you or else I don’t want to talk to anyone else in the evening until we’re okay. What was it? Was it too many people staring...?”

Arthur groaned, lifting a hand to his face as he gave an exhausted exhale, as if had only collected his thoughts just then.

“Alfred,” he began. “Did you really expect me to just be content with me being the main spectacle for an audience? I mean ... I get it, of course. It’s Christmas and you want to us to be that ideal couple that everyone always expects us to be. But I don’t...” Arthur took another breath, staring at the floor to avoid Alfred’s concerned gaze. “You just made me look like a prize in front of everyone. Like you had to show me off or something. And maybe that’s something that’s good on you but...”

Alfred felt his chest stiffen. God, had he really gone that far into ruining Arthur’s night? Alfred went to close the door to the room, finally allowing the two of them the opportunity to speak in their own quarters privately.

“Hey...” interrupted Alfred, coming a little closer to the other on the mattress. Arthur visibly hesitated, almost turning his head away, but Alfred persisted.

“I didn’t mean it to come off like that, Artie. Really. I’m... really sorry. You know I wouldn’t want to purposely make you look bad in front of everyone.”

Arthur sighed. “I know you didn’t mean it like that. Of course you didn’t. I just... I wanted to bring it up much earlier in the party. But I didn’t want to kill your mood before everything started. It just didn’t make sense to make you upset like that.”

Alfred now frowned at that. He took his place right next to Arthur, laying down on the bed, practically spooning the man as a way to comfort him.

“You can’t expect me to be happy at a party if my own boyfriend isn’t happy.” said Alfred. “I know everything still under construction with us. But you gotta learn to trust me and tell me if I’m doing something like this to you. It’s like a Yelp review; you gotta leave me some feedback so I can get better at this whole... relationship thing!”

It was an honest statement. Alfred already knew he wasn’t an expert into reading into Arthur’s emotions just yet; they had only been together for the last 3 months and he still had yet to map out all of the other’s idiosyncrasies and quirks. Alfred just liked the idea of making Arthur feel special... but perhaps this was also one of the unknowns of introverts; a category of people that Alfred knew next to nothing about.

At the response, Arthur rolled his eyes but chortled passively.

“That’s the worst comparison you’ve come up with to this day.”

“I’m 100% serious though,” insisted Alfred, burying his nose right on the crook of Arthur’s neck. “Come back downstairs. I’ll promise that I’ll stay by you all night if you want. Your own personal chauffeur.”

“You’re too much,” Arthur sighed as he closed his eyes a second time. “But I guess I do also owe you an apology as well.”

Arthur shuffled around, meeting Alfred’s gaze as he stared into his soft blue eyes. Alfred couldn’t help it but lean in, taking another kiss on Arthur’s lips. It was much longer this time; the redo that Alfred had wanted to experience.

“Is that the apology?” teased Alfred, soon placing his kisses on Arthur’s eyebrows and nose. “Can I have more of those?”

“Of course you can. But careful,” warned Arthur, laughing. “Keep this up, and you won’t have any kisses left for next year.”

[alfreedomm]

My @usuknetwork Secret Santa gift for KC (@kcg-filomeno) with the prompt “Wolf!Alfred and Bunny!Arthur in a winter wonderland”

I hope I did alright qwq

[astralastrid]

I'll Be Home For Christmas

Hi @snowfairy909 ! I was your @usuknetwork holiday exchange Secret Santa! Happy holidays and enjoy!

Title: I'll Be Home For Christmas Prompt: Arthur coming over to London to surprise Alfred for Christmas Summary: Separated by distance, both Alfred and Arthur long for each other. Rating: general audiences Warnings: n/a Holidays were always a magical time for Alfred. He loved them as a child, and loved them still. He loved the certain feeling everything would get, the quiet serenity that came with snow, the holiday songs, the food, exchanging gifts, and the warm atmosphere of family. And even as everyone got older and went their separate ways, he still enjoyed calling everybody and seeing what they were up to. Unfortunately, this year, Alfred found himself spending these special days alone. 

His brother, Matthew, lived in Canada and couldn't make the trip, and he rather not bother his parents, even if he knew they'd always welcome him with open arms.

But mostly Alfred found himself longing for his boyfriend, Arthur. Alfred had met Arthur in a café, and the two had kept running into each other, which had sparked a friendship. The two texted back and forth, and even started to hang out, sometimes at the very café where they had first met.The two would discuss all sorts of things, often complaining about work. And while Alfred's own work stories were subpar, Arthur's, on the other hand, were extremely entertaining, and Alfred always looked forward to Arthur's latest tirade about his French co-worker. Over time, Alfred and Arthur became close, and friendship soon turned into love. 

 Unfortunately, Arthur had been working in London for the past year, and because of this, the two had rarely seen each other in person, Arthur visiting only when he could get the vacation time, and often he would just stay in England. Alfred dearly missed the sound of his angelic laugh, his rare, small smile, his doting yet brash personality, and especially his embrace. Webcam could only capture so much. 

Alfred decided to call Arthur. The phone rang and rang, but there was no response. His boyfriend's voice usually brought him joy, but this time, Arthur's familiar voicemail only added to the pang of loneliness he felt.

Alfred sighed, deciding to call his brother instead, who thankfully picked up. "Hey Al, everything alright?"

"Yeah, yeah, just relaxing you know? Anyway what's up bro? Have you put up your decorations?" Alfred looked around at his house, all decked out in holiday garb. His eyes lingered on the tree, and he felt a new wave of sadness come over him. Decorating was one of his favorite things to do with Arthur, and it was the first year in a while that they hadn't done it together.

"Well actually we're doing that now." The sound of a grunt came over the line as Matthew probably picked up something heavy. 

"Oh" Alfred said dejectedly. "Is now a bad time to call?" 

"No, no it's fine! It's always nice to hear from you, especially since I know you're busy this time of year." Matthew was too polite for his own good, and wouldn't admit that it was probably a hassle to balance the phone on top of putting things up. 

"No Mattie it's fine, I can call you back." There was a pause, and Alfred could almost see the worried expression on his sibling's face. 

"Alfred, I know you miss Arthur, but try not to let it take over your life eh? Order some pizza and watch a Hallmark movie or something. You love the holidays. Don't let this ruin it." 

alfred tried to smile. "Your right Matt, thanks. Love you."  

"Love you too. Talk to you later." Matthew had a point. Holidays were supposed to be fun! And by god, he was going to enjoy them! Alfred ordered a pizza, putting on "Elf," one of his favorite Christmas movies, and watching the snow fall. Maybe he'd make a snowman later... 

Over the next few days, Alfred tried to not think about Arthur too much, but it was hard when they did almost everything together during the season. It was strange to not smell burnt food coming from the oven or hear scathing remarks on the "cheesiness of American movies," (even if Arthur secretly enjoyed them.) Everything reminded Alfred of Arthur, and the holidays were going to be hard without the other half of his heart. 

                                                       *** 

 Arthur Kirkland had mixed feelings about holidays. He despised the commercialism of it all, the same bloody songs playing over and over, and above all, the crowds. And yet, he did enjoy the general giving spirit mankind was prone to at this time of year. Everyone and everything seemed a little brighter and a little kinder. Even his brothers seemed to tease him less during the holiday season. 

But this year, Christmas was turning out to be a little different. His job has asked him to work abroad for a year, and Arthur had happily accepted, eager to return to his homeland after years of being away from it. The experience was incredible: so much was the same, yet everything was a little bit different. So many of the shops he had known as a child were still there, but unfortunately a few had been closed down or demolished. Despite being busy with his work, Arthur had taken the time to "sightsee," refamiliarizing himself with the joys of his younger years, even taking the time to see his parents and catch up with them.

However, while it was great to see it all again, he found himself missing Alfred a lot, and the conversation he had with his parents didn't help. They were overjoyed to see him "across the pond," so to speak, and Arthur was thankful that they were so supportive of his relationship with Alfred, but it soon because all that they wanted to talk about: 'How was Alfred?' 'When was the last time you saw him?' 'Have you called him recently?' 'Don't you miss him?' 

 And yes, Arthur missed him dearly. London seemed much more gloomy and quiet than he remembered. He used to enjoy that aspect of London, but after meeting Alfred it was strange to go back to a less boisterous life. Everything seemed colder and lonelier without Alfred's warm touch, his larger-than-life laugh, his brighter-than-the-sun smile, and his overall sunny personality that filled whatever room he was in. Alfred had become a bigger part of Arthur's life than he realized, and he cursed the fact he couldn't always afford the plane ticket to see him. 

 Admittedly, Arthur had been so busy with work lately that he had missed numerous calls from Alfred, forgetting to call him back and mostly replying to him via text. It was all going to be worth it, but he still felt immensely guilty and decided to give Alfred a ring. 

 "Hello? Alfred?" 

 "Artie!" He could clearly picture the smile on his boyfriend's face. "Is everything ok? You hadn't called in a while..." His words were like a stab in the gut. 

 Arthur coughed awkwardly. "Yes, sorry about that love. I've been busier than I anticipated. But I'm fine I promise. Anything ah, new over there?" 

 "Nope! Just the usual: ice, snow, hot coco, and the "overly cliché" movies you love to hate. Oh and the oven isn't on fire for once." 

 Arthur reddened. "You leave me and my perfectly fine cooking skills alone!" 

Alfred laughed. "Whatever you say." There was a pause. "Hey Arthur?" 

 "Yes love?"

"It's really good to hear your voice. I really miss you." 

 Arthur smiled. "I miss you too poppet." They said their goodbyes and it was really hard for Arthur not to tell Alfred that he'd see him soon. See, the reason that Arthur had been so busy is that he had been working hard so that when he requested to go home for the holidays, it would seem like a reasonable request. It had taken a bit of wheedling on Arthur's part, but his boss had agreed to let him go. Arthur was scheduled to arrive on Christmas Eve, and he couldn't wait to surprise his boyfriend.

                                                       ***

Alfred had been watching "The Polar Express" and eating ice-cream when there was a knock on the door. Strange, he hadn't been expecting anyone... He paused the movie and put the ice-cream down, opening the door carefully. Seeing who it was, he swung the door wide open and crushed his boyfriend in a bear-hug. "Artie!" Arthur, while a little irritated at the lack of a warning, hugged back tightly. "I missed you so much it hurt Arthur!"  

"Merry Christmas Alfred. I missed you too. Now can we please go inside before we catch out deaths out here?" Alfred laughed, quickly letting him go and helping him with his belongings. 

"Why didn't you tell me you were coming home? I would've prepared something special!" And wouldn't have left the place in such a mess, Alfred added silently in his head. 

"I wanted to surprise you. Plus I knew you'd be all overly extravagant about it, and while I appreciate it, I rather just spend a few relaxing evenings with you." 

Alfred nodded. "I understand, but promise you'll let me take you out for New Year's! If you're staying that long. When are you going back? Are you here for good?" Alfred became frantic. "Or are they making you stay in London for good? Please don't tell me it's true Arthur! This year has been hard enough already! Another second without you and I'd die!" 

 Arthur scoffed. "Stop being so overdramatic." He gestured to the various trash scattered about. "You seem just fine. You sure you'd missed me?" At Alfred's indignant look, Arthur waved his hand dismissively. "I'm just joking. I'm home until after New Year's and then I have to return. But after that I should be wrapping up everything and returning for good before the month is out, promise." He went over and kissed him on the cheek. "But we can worry about that later. It's Christmas Eve! Let's just relax." 

 Alfred beamed. "You don't have to tell me twice!" Alfred made popcorn while Arthur brewed his tea, and the two soon returned to the couch, continuing to watch movies and cuddling up to each other. It didn't take long for them to fall asleep in the other's embrace. 

The next morning, Alfred shook Arthur excitedly. "Wake up Artie! It's Christmas!" Arthur groaned, trying to go back to sleep, but Alfred insisted, pulling the blankets off. 

 "Fine, fine, I'm up!" Arthur grumbled. 

 Alfred was smiling sheepishly as he handed him breakfast."I'm sorry I couldn't get you a proper gift this year. I wasn't expecting you to be home and frankly, I didn't know what to get you regardless. You have plenty of mugs and tea, and all your knitting stuff is in working condition-" 

 "Oh hush." Arthur interrupted. "It's okay love. Being with you is already the perfect gift." 

 Alfred smirked. "I thought you hated cheesy lines like that." Arthur scoffed and hit him playfully. "Seriously though. I'll make it up to you."

 Arthur smiled. "It's fine, don't worry. And don't you want to know what I got you?" He went over to his suitcase and brought out two wrapped presents. "I know how much you love Harry Potter, so I got you a robe, a wand, chocolate frogs, and Bertie Botts Every Flavor Beans." He explained as Alfred opened the presents.

 Alfred hugged him tightly. "Oh I love this! Thank you thank you!" Alfred put them out of harm's way. "So what now?" 

 "I just want to spend the day with you dearest." And that they did. They baked and cooked together, (Alfred being careful to watch Arthur's every move,) ate together, and Alfred even convinced Arthur to have a snowball fight with him. After that, they warmed back up with hot drinks and spent the rest of the evening snuggled up, watching whatever was on tv. 

 And later, Alfred did fulfill his promise to make it up to Arthur, taking him out on New Year's Eve and buying whatever he wanted from the stores that weren't closed, (despite Arthur's protests.) They went ice skating, and walked around town eating ice-cream. At night, they toasted to each other, sharing a kiss at midnight. And staring into each other's eyes lovingly, they both knew that their holidays would always be complete, so long as they had the other at their side.

[levyfai]

A Kirkland Christmas

This is a Christmas gift for @Franxisss for the @usuknetwork 2018 Christmas exchange. I hope you like it. 

Summary: Arthur and his boyfriend Alfred are visiting his family for the Holidays. Yet this omega had hidden something from the family, he was 3 months pregnant. So Alfred needs to survive a family of overprotective alphas and omegas. 

Warnings: A little swearing and omegaverse with m-preg 

Arthur Kirkland was nervous, not only was he coming home with an alpha on his arm but he was about 3 months along. He had spoken to his mother about the alpha with him but didn’t mention about his pregnancy. So that’s why he had been biting his lip and looking out the window as his boyfriend drove to his family house.

               “Babe, you need to calm down, stress isn’t healthy for you or the baby.”

               “And meeting my family isn’t going to be healthy for you…”

               “Arthur, I love you and you know I will do anything for you.”

               “I don’t want you to die for me,” Arthur replied with a worried smile.

               “Then wish me luck because we're here.”

               Arthur felt relief as he saw the brick of the two-story house that was his home for most of his life. He was entranced with old memories until his boyfriend parked the car and help him get out of the car. He leaned into the younger alpha taking in his scent of apple pie and hay.

               “Arthur…”

               “You know we still can leave, I’ll just tell mum something came up…”

               “Arthur Igneous  Kirkland, you have told me all about your family and I finally get to meet them. As a hero, I can’t pass on a challenge.”

               “Alright but I warn you, my family is…”

               “Overprotective, don’t worry babe I can handle a few alphas…”

               “They aren’t the ones I’m worried about,” Arthur muttered as they went on the porch and rang the bell.

               It was answered by a blond-haired omega female who looked straight at Arthur and smiled.

               “Arthur.”

               “Mum.”

               Alfred watched as the two embraced and couldn’t help but compare the two. The older hair was white blond and taller, but he could see where Arthur got his smile and laughter.

               “Mum, I want you to meet Alfred….”

               “Hello Mrs. Kirkland, I’m Alfred F Jones….”

               “Ja, Arthur has told me about you…though he left out some parts on your relationship.”

               He started to laugh nervously as the older blond just gave him a glare and sighed.

               “Mum….”

               “I have no cause to blame you two but wait before you tell your papa.” She replied as she gently touched the baby bump.

               “Thank you, mum.”

               Bella kissed her son’s head and led the young couple into the house. Alfred could feel comfort in the house. It was decorated to from the floor to the walls, and he couldn’t help smiling when he heard childish laughter.

               “Arthur!” He watched as two 8-year-olds go over and hug his boyfriend.

               One was a red-headed beta girl and the other was a white hair alpha. He then felt a presence behind him and Bella’s voice introducing the two children.

               “Those are Meredith and Dylan my youngest set of twins.”

               “Set?” Alfred asked as two more figures came into the living room.

               These set of twins were both boys, one who had a mix of red and blond hair and blue eyes while the other was a pure redhead with dark green eyes. The two looked at him then while the lighter redhead went to hug Arthur the other came over to him.

               “You must be Arthur’s boyfriend.”

               “Yeah, and you…”

               “Scott Kirkland, I’m alpha in my 3rd year in Hetalia High. I’m the captain of the football team and boxing.”

               In other words, I mess with your brother you will get me. Alfred thought he knew he would do the same thing if his brother came home with another alpha. Alfred then looked over at Arthur who was now sitting down and talking to his three younger siblings.

               “The one with the mix of blond and red hair is named Bern, He’s Scott’s twin,” Bella explained.

               “Where is Mr. Kirkland.”

               “He’ll be here in a few minutes, he had to pick up my parents from the airport.”

               “Wait, you mean grandfather and Grandmum are going to be here?” Arthur asked his face getting a little pale.

               “Yes, the deiced that they wanted to visit us instead of us going there….”

               “Arthur are you okay.” Alfred went to his love’s side and squeezed his hand.

               Bella sighed and walked over to where the children were and quickly got them up and had them go and get things ready for their guests. She then sat down beside Arthur and opened her arms which he went in and relaxed.

               “Don’t worry my little lion, it will be fine.”

               “Mum….”

               “Besides they won’t allow mama to bring his rifle over here.”

               Alfred felt a chill down his spine and had a feeling that the omegas in Arthur’s family were the people who he should be worried about. then he felt a hand on his shoulder and Bella looked at him with a smile.

               “Arthur you rest, I would like to talk to your mate for a little while.”

               “Mum…”

               “Bern.”

               “Yes, mum?”

               “Take your big brother to his room and make sure he doesn’t stress.”

               “Yes mama, come on Arthur.”

               Arthur looked at Alfred, and the alpha just smiles and kissed him before letting the younger omega take him. He then felt the eyes of Arthur’s mother on him, he swallowed.

               “Come with me, I think you need some cocoa.”

               “Yeah….”

               He followed her into the kitchen and looked at the fridge to see pictures and school reports on it. He couldn’t help but think about having his own fridge covered with projects and pictures of the little one that Arthur was carrying.

               “How long have you known about the pregnancy?”

               “Arthur told me a few weeks into it.”

               Bella seemed to smile a little then handed him the cocoa.

               “I hid my pregnancy for 4 months before I told Alistair.”

               He almost spit out his drink, he had heard of omegas hiding their pregnancy, yet for 4 months. She would have to hide her scent from everyone and would have to change her clothing. He couldn’t help but worry if Arthur had hidden the pregnancy from him, he would have to be alone through many trials in having a baby.

               “Why?”

               “I just turned 18 and fell in love with a Scotsman who was an old friend of my papa. He was also a solider that was on leave. Both of us were drunk and my heat came to early. “

               “So, Arthur is…”

               “He is our eldest son, and I wouldn’t change a thing.”

               “But going at it alone….”

               “Which is why I’m asking you a question.”

               “I will make sure that Arthur will be taken care of, he’s carrying my child.”

               “Yes, but I wonder are doing this because you love him or because you feel a duty to make sure that the child my son carries wouldn’t be picked on.”

               “I…”

               “Because if it is the 2nd reason then you may leave now, I will not have my son have a loveless marriage or mating, I will not have the child being raised by an alpha who only thinks of the child as a duty instead of a child.”

               “Mrs. Kirkland, I love Arthur with all my heart. When I first met him, I felt my whole world turn upside down. I had to ask my friends on how to approach him. I still remember our first kiss, it was amazing then when his heat came…I realized I really wanted to be with him…I was going to ask for his hand…”

               “But now you wonder if we would take it the wrong way,” Bella replied.

               “Yes….”

               Bella started to laugh and looked at Alfred.

               “History does repeat itself.”

               “You mean?”                “Alistair asked me to marry him when he found out I was pregnant. My parents were mad when they found out.”

               “How mad?”

               “Well, I had to beg my mama to not sniper Alistair.”

               Alfred winced as he heard the door open again. Bella sighed and looked at him and touched his shoulder.

               “Find Arthur, he will need your support for this, I will talk to the three that just came in.”

               “Okay…”

               He quickly went upstairs and found Arthur in one of the bedrooms. He was surrounded by Bern and their two younger siblings. He was reading from an old storybook and the three were entranced his reading.  Alfred couldn’t help but think of Arthur reading to their own child and tucking the said child into bed. His dream was broken when he heard yelling in strange languages.

               “Papa and grandma and grandpa are here,” Dylan said wincing hearing the voices.

               “Why are they mad?” Meredith asked snuggling her big brother.

               “I’m afraid they are mad at me,” Arthur said gently patting her head.

               “Why?”

               “Because your brother is carrying my child,” Alfred said getting into the room.

               Arthur looked up at him as he went over to sit by his boyfriend. Meredith frowned but moved over to allow the older alpha to hold her brother. She watched them snuggled and felt herself being picked up.

               “Bern?”

               “Let’s leave them alone for a while, besides we need to help mama calm down papa and grandma and grandpa.”

               “Okay….” She replied as Dylan followed the two.

               Once they were alone Alfred pulled Arthur into his lap one hand on the omega’s shoulder the other on his belly doing small circles. Arthur sighed and laid his head on Alfred’s shoulder.

               “How was the talk with mum?”

               “Well, she did question my attention toward you.”

               “You mean if you are staying with me because of the baby or because you love me?” he replied.

               “Your mother loves you….”

               Arthur nodded and smiled.

               “She always worried about her children, and father too.”

               “She told me about her experience with your father and the…”

               “The way that she hid her pregnancy from him.”

               “Yeah….”

               “You know when I was old enough to understand how she felt. That she loved my father enough to hide because she wanted him to have a good life, and she loved me enough to keep and would raise me on her own.”

               “I understand that, but I want to be with you for all this…which is why I have a question for you…”

               “Alfred…” Arthur’s eyes went wide as Alfred put him down and knelt down in front of him.

               “Arthur Igneous Kirkland, will you do me the honor of being my life mate, and be the mother of our children and stay with me all our lives, will you marry me?”

               “Alfred…oh, Alfred…. My answer is….”

               “So, you’re the bloody bastard who took my son’s virginity.” Alfred swallowed as he caught the scent of an older protective alpha was behind him and turned to see an older version of Scott.

               “Father please��.”

               “No, I won’t have the man who knocked up my son not pay for his actions, he will treat you like a queen and I will make sure he’ll support you even if have to….”

               “Alistair Scott Kirkland, ya still can read the mood.” Bella cut in and the alpha looked at her.

               “Belle, I’m trying….”

               “Look at where Alfred is Alistair…”

               The alpha looked at the scene again and then turned red as his hair. Bella took his shoulders and put him outside the door.

               “Sorry about that, I tried to stop him. Anyway, keep doing what ya were doing.”

               Once the two were gone, Arthur looked over to Alfred.

               “Are you sure that you want to marry into this family?”

               “As long as you’re in it, sure beside my family is partly crazy also, besides your dad just wanted to make sure you were okay….”

               “Yes, but they are very overprotective….”

               “Some of the best families are…. So?”

               “Yes, Alfred I will marry you.”

               The alpha smiled and brought his new soon to be mate into a kiss. They were lost into the kiss until they heard a click then a flash. Arthur blush and hid his face in Alfred’s chest as an omega with winter blond hair and lavender eyes looked at them both.

               “So cute, I hope the baby has Arthur’s looks though….”

               “Mama…”

               “Tino…”

               “What their cute together, besides I want to have more grandchildren.”

               “It will be your greatgrandchild….”

               “Still a grandchild.”

               Arthur sighed when the other people left the two in a quiet embrace. Arthur then looked at Alfred pleading and the alpha just smiles and kissed him again.

               “I’m just happy that our child will have a great family to help support them.”

               Arthur hummed and snuggled his mate, he was happy and could already think about next Christmas when his baby would be able to enjoy the warmth of his family and love of both his father and mother. He found himself closing his eyes to think about it and falling asleep. Soon after Alfred fell asleep also and they spent the rest of the night laying side by side.

               Fin

[kailjoi]

An awfully late [but still on time] @usuknetwork holiday exchange gift for @cookiecat1026- I’m so sorry to have kept you waiting ;;

I went off of the prompts ‘late-night cuddles’ and ‘by the fire place,’ and it was a lot of fun- even if my hand is killing me from lighting effects uwu

I hope you like it.

[naueth]

This is glorious! Thank you so much! ♡

happy holidays @naueth!! i was your secret santa for the @usuknetwork holiday exchange! <3

i went with your rock band au request bc a) rock music is right up my alley and b) uh i’d be a fool not to choose it- u w y 

i hope you like it and that you have an awesome holiday! <3