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Age 5
Fall is, and he is so proud to say it, Ferdinand’s favorite time of year. Because fall means Halloween and Halloween means candy and costumes . Not that little Ferdie exactly understands fall but he does understand Mother taking him to pick out a costume and all the candy she also bought. His costume, which he hasn’t been allowed to wear all week until now which he finds incredibly unfair, is the absolute best because Mother let Ferdie pick it. But it’s okay! Because! He gets to wear it now! And Edie and Hubert are gonna be here any minute and they’re gonna go trick-or-treating and it's going to be great and- And the sound of the doorbell stops Ferdinand in his flitting back and forth between the two windows in the living room. He gasps audibly, making his Mother chuckle, as he all but launches himself off the couch towards the front door and almost wiping his mother out in the process. She scolds him lightly with a, “Ferdie I can’t open the door with you there,” and tugs him out of the way so he won’t get hit by the door. But he doesn’t mind being tugged around in the slightest, too busy bouncing from one foot to the other in excitement.
Mother keeps him out of view with the door when she opens it, too busy greeting Edelgard’s mom. He tries to go around her but she puts a hand on his head to stop him, messing up his hat in the process. He frowns a little, although it is more of a pout, as he tugs her hand off and adjusts the hat. Mother exchanges a few words with Edelgards Mom but he doesn’t listen in favor of making sure his costume is perfect , it’s all adult stuff anyway which doesn’t interest Ferdie at all. He’s still fidgeting and straightening his costume when his mom finally turns to face him. “Stop that,” she grumbles, grabbing at his hands, “Your fidgeting is going to mess it up. Now,” and Ferdie straightens slightly at the ‘you better listen to me right now’ tone and the sharpness in her face, “You will listen to Patricia and you will be on your absolute best behavior for her. If you’re not, your father and I will know.” Ferdinand nods as solemnly as a 5 year old can and her face softens back into a smile, “Now go and have fun.” She leans down and kisses his forehead and then turns to walk back to the living room. He grins at her back and gives his cap one more adjustment before stepping towards the doors.
Ferdie, being as short as he is, has to keep his back to the others to shut the door, at least until Edelgard’s Mom reaches out to help. He’s already back to bouncing lightly on his feet but he really cannot help the squeak that escapes when he turns around. He takes the smallest step back and Hubert laughs from behind his mask, which makes the already purposefully scary laugh even scarier. At least to little Ferdie. Edelgard is dressed as a witch, the best witch in Ferdie’s opinion and he makes sure to tell her so, making her entire face light up with a smile. And Hubert is dressed as a grim reaper, but not just a normal grim reaper; one with a really scary mask that has the eyes light up red. Hubert teases him, “What? Are you scared?” and Ferdie lifts his head a little but still keeps his distance and the little frown that definitely looks like a pout and says while puffing his chest out, “No! I’m not scared of anything!” Ferdie is sure Hubert was gonna say something mean but Edie jumps in with an, “Oh! You’re Peter Pan!” and Ferdie really couldn’t keep the grin off of his face if he tried.
They had watched the movie together for the first time about a month ago and Ferdie and Edie had loved it but Hubert had been very far from impressed, only watching it again since Edelgard had liked it. Ferdie had absolutely fallen in love with the movie, and if they asked he would tell them he had watched it 3 times a day since and when he saw the costume he just knew it was perfect because it was his favorite thing ever. But they didn’t ask, which is also good! Don’t worry! Because then Edelgard’s Mom tells Ferdie his costume is very cute! And that it’s time to go trick-or-treating! So they have to hold hands and stay together and with her! And with that Edelgard gets between both boys and grabs each of their hands and tugs them along after her Mom.
Age 11
Ferdinand gives the collar of his polo another annoyed tug with a sigh before shifting the books in his arms around slightly so that he can open his locker. After having spent the summer being able to wear what he wanted, he still wasn’t used to being forced to wear ‘nicer’ clothes for school. But it really doesn’t make sense because no one else is forced to wear certain things. Sure lots of the members at the school do like wearing ‘nicer’ clothes but that’s what they like. Ferdinand much prefers the same clothes he spends wandering around outside in. But, and he shoves the book in his hand with a little more force than necessary, Mother has decided that he needs to, in her words, ‘grow up’. He’s still grumbling slightly to himself and pulling again at the collar when two hands grab his sides making him squeal and jump.
Hubert and Edelgard’s laughter gave them away even before Ferdinand could turn around to see them. Ferdinand's face twists into a slight frown, it still looks suspiciously like a pout and Edelgard just flashes him a grin, “Someone’s really ticklish aren’t they?” Feeling his ears burn he sticks his tongue out at her, just making them both laugh again, and says “You just scared me! That’s all!” He glances at Hubert and gives him the full force of his frown, “And I don’t think you’re supposed to be here Hubert! This is the 6th grade hall!” Hubert only gives him a noncommittal shrug and a smirk, not even bothering to give Ferdinand a proper answer making his ears burn more.
Edelgard steps between the two boys, having been around the two of them long enough to sense an oncoming argument and really they don’t have time for that, and says “Actually Ferdie, I grabbed Hubert and dragged him here for a reason. Halloween is in the middle of the week next week so they’ve decided to start the trick-or-treating tomorrow night instead and I wanted to see if you would join me, Hubert, and Dimitri. I know how much you love going!” Edelgard had expected to see the frown melt off of Ferdinand’s face, this has always been her friend's favorite time of year, but instead he shrinks into himself slightly and won’t look either her or Hubert in the eye. She even sees Hubert frown out of the corner of her eye so she says, “Ferdie?” Ferdinand glances up to look at her for a second before dropping his gaze back down on the floor and tugging on the collar of shirt nervously, “Ah, you know I would love to Edelgard but… But Father has said I am not allowed to go.” Ferdinand shrinks down a little more and his voice gets smaller along with him “He says it is too childish and-” Ferdinand stops abruptly clenching his teeth slightly, “And I cannot go because of it. I want to but what Father says goes.”
Edelgard opens her mouth to say something, as does Hubert, but the bell rings telling them they’re going to be late to class if they don’t get moving. Ferdinand whirls around slamming his locker shut and gives them a quick “Goodbye!” before all but sprinting towards his classroom. Edelgard and Hubert exchange a look and then quiet goodbyes, going about their day as if the conversation never happened. But on Monday they bring Ferdinand a bag of candy and pretend not to see the tears that tried to build in his eyes.
Age 17
Ferdinand had thought that middle school was bad but honestly high school is so much worse. He doesn’t remember the last time he had a moment to breathe . It feels as if since the first day of freshman year he has been go, go, go, going. Nonstop extra curriculars, sports, and homework; and then for the past two years his father had made him add college classes on top of everything. To put it simply, Ferdinand is exhausted and now he has to try to find a university on top of it all. Ferdinand had decided on a university a long time ago, along with Edelgard and Hubert. In fact they brought up that decision just the other day at the lunch table.
Both of Ferdinand's friends had amassed quite the group of friends while he had been so busy (one of Edie’s friends had even looked him in the eye after knowing him for only a few minutes and said “I hate you” he still isn't quite sure what he did but he avoids her). Ferdinand knew them all, considered most of them friends but whether that feeling is mutual or not is beyond him because he never sees them outside of school or school activities. Thankfully, for Ferdinand anyway, Hubert had graduated two years prior. Recently the older boy, or man he supposes, has taken to jumping down his throat at every possible opportunity. Which caused the two of them to argue worse than they ever had before. Regardless of the sudden spike in animosity Edelgard had asked Ferdinand if he still planned on going to the same university as them and he had said yes, of course, which had made her smile at him brightly. Her step-brother Dimitri had then asked which one they were talking about and then the whole table was discussing which school was best and why for the rest of lunch.
That was a few days ago however. Now Ferdinand is sitting at the dining room table with all of his school books spread around, bouncing between homework and applying for colleges. Most are back-up plans just in case he doesn’t get into his first choice but his grades are fantastic and he has so many extra curriculars under his belt that there was no way he’d be turned down. He was working harder than he normally does because it’s the Friday before Halloween and Edelgard and Dimitri are throwing a costume party tomorrow night and Ferdinand really wants to go. He hasn’t been allowed to enjoy Halloween since 5th grade, the last time he went trick-or-treating. But he loves this time of year. He always has. He hasn’t even been allowed to carve pumpkins like they usually do for years now. He always feels a twinge of jealousy every time sees his younger siblings getting to enjoy the things he loves like helping his mother in the flower bed or her personal garden. Or even just being able to enjoy being outside.
He turns his head away from the window and away from those thoughts. Instead he tries to force his mind to focus on the paperwork in front of him, but he’s been here for hours and the words started running together and not making sense ages ago. Tossing his pencil down, he groans, rubbing his face with his hands. If he is even going to be able to just think about convincing his father to let him go to the party he’ll-
The front door slams open, startling him out of his slouch in the chair. Ferdinand goes to grab his pencil and another set of homework, scrambling slightly to look busy , when one of the college applications he’s already finished is snatched up by a pudgy red hand. Ferdinand snaps his head toward his father, swallowing down his surprise as he says, “Father, I didn’t know you would be-”
“What,” His father cuts him off, his voice low with a spark of anger, “Is this?” Ferdinand glances between his father’s face and the papers he’s holding. It is hard to tell which university it is but whichever it is his father is far from pleased. “Father-” “I told you to apply for good schools. This,” and his red-faced father tosses the packet of papers down hard enough to send the other papers flying, “ Garreg Mach is nowhere near good enough to even be applying to! I will not let you be an embarrassment to me like this-”
“Hubert is going to Garreg Mach and-”
“ Vestra ,” the sneer would have been impressive if he hadn’t just spit all over Ferdinand’s face, “is hardly a name to be comparing our family name to. He is a cretin-”
“There is nothing wrong with Hubert, Father!” Even if he had started antagonizing him more recently, Hubert is still Ferdinand’s friend. One of his oldest friends in fact and one of the few people who will listen when Ferdinand starts rambling even if it is just to argue with him. “Besides,” Ferdinand continues hotly, “ Edelgard is also planning on going there and I even heard that her step-brother probably is too. There is nothing wrong with that school! ” Ferdinand doesn’t remember standing but he realizes he is when his father has to point his finger up instead of down to put it in his face. His father’s face is an ugly shade of purple and when the shorter man takes a step forward Ferdinand instinctively steps back, “You will not talk to me like that boy. Not in this house, in this lifetime. There are plenty of actually good schools out there and you will -”
“But Father-” Both of their voices had risen throughout the argument but neither of them were as loud as the resounding sound of his father’s hand making contact with his face. The resulting silence was only broken by the sound of his mother coming in the front door. She turned the corner, took in their red-faces and the mark on Ferdinand’s cheek, and turned back around and went back outside. It was only when the door closed once more that Ferdinand spoke, lifting his face from where it was hanging in shame, “I will apply to Garreg Mach and if I get in, I will be attending there as a student.” His eyes were filled with tears but he wouldn’t allow them to fall, staring defiantly at his father. The shorter man met the challenge for a few moments before snarling and storming off. It was only when the sound of his study slamming hit his ears that Ferdinand sat back down and let the tears flow freely.
Age 20
They have been riding in the car for half an hour now and neither Edelgard or Hubert will tell him where they’re going. They had shown up together outside his dorm room door about two weeks ago. They hadn’t seen him at all since they had come back from summer break, they had said frowning at him, and wanted to spend time with him and after that they showed up every few days for the past two weeks, dragging him from place to place. Ferdinand had allowed it because he was too exhausted to argue with them and then three days ago Edelgard had ordered him to clear his schedule for today, a Saturday, because there was somewhere they wanted to take him. He had fought back that time, he had homework and studying and just lots of things to get done but Hubert had spoken up and said please so here he is.
The two of them are having a conversation about… something. They’re talking loud enough for Ferdinand to hear but the drive is relaxing. Edelgard looks at him through the rearview mirror and smiles at him, big and bright, and he cannot help a small, but genuine, smile back. He settles down more in the seat, and leans his head against the window. The exhaustion he had been running from settles deep into his bones, and with a sigh Ferdinand allows the ride to lull him to sleep.
He wakes up about an hour and a half later. The scenery is very different from around the college, he notes when he’s awake and aware, in fact it looks suspiciously like… “We are in Aegir,” He says suddenly, leaning forward so that they could hear him and so he can look out the windshield. Both of his friends jumped at the suddenness of his voice cutting through the silence of the car and normally Ferdinand would smirk at that (especially since Hubert jumped, the man was notorious for jump scaring people) but instead he was gazing at the scenery with an ache deep in his chest. It had been sometime since he had been here but it was still as beautiful as the last time. Especially now, with the leaves changing colors on the trees lining the road. It’s not that Ferdinand thought Enbarr was ugly, on the contrary it is a beautiful city, but it's not the same kind of beautiful as Aegir. It’s like comparing the mountains to the ocean. Edelgard and Hubert both are scolding him for scaring them but it’s all going in one ear and out the other and eventually it dissolves into the two of them bantering back and forth (they insist they don’t argue or bicker but they are becoming more and more like siblings everyday) anyway, not needing Ferdinand’s input.
Thirty minutes later when Edelgard pulls into a long driveway Ferdinand is far from surprised but he still cannot help the rush of air that escapes him when the house comes into view at last. It’s not an overly large house but it is old and two stories and the most beautiful thing Ferdinand has seen in ages. The people living in the house must have been alerted that they were coming, possibly even that they had arrived Ferdinand does think he saw Hubert take his phone out, because standing on the covered porch is one of Ferdinand’s younger siblings.
The car wasn’t even off before Ferdinand was throwing the door open and jumping out. Edelgard and Hubert were a few minutes behind him and he couldn’t even hear the doors opening over the shout of, “Ferdie!” Ferdinand barely had enough time to throw his arms open before the small brunette was throwing her arms around his neck squeezing him tightly. She gives him another big squeeze and then steps back to get a good look at him. She gives him a once over with a slight frown and he gives her his trademark smile and says simply, “Hello Evie.” She scowls back at him and her amber eyes flash and he knows she would have scolded him if Edelgard hadn’t cleared her throat to get their attention. Evelyn’s eyes light up and she flounces over to give Edelgard a hug and to greet Hubert with a smile and “Hello” before turning back to her older brother, “Well come on. She’s waiting on you, you know.”
Stepping up the steps to his grandmother’s house is a feeling like no other, at least to Ferdinand. For him it’s always been a freeing feeling, finally being able to get out from underneath his father’s disappointed gaze. When he was here nothing could touch him, he was invincible. It had torn him apart when his father had told them they couldn’t visit anymore after his grandmother stepped up and took Evelyn in after her mother passed.
“I will not allow my children to be allowed around a bastard,” His father had snarled, his rage showing clearly on his face and in his tone. “Then you shouldn’t have had one,” she had shot back, not the least bit intimidated by her son's ire.
Thankfully the ban had only lasted for two years and when all of her grandchildren swarmed her house she had sat them all down and told them they would either be accepting and kind or they wouldn’t visit. Thankfully they all took to Evelyn like a house on fire, Ferdinand isn’t where he would be if he had been permanently banned. But it has been sometime since the last time he’s visited, probably the last summer before he started college. But he spoke to his grandmother and Evelyn, and his other siblings as well, at least once a week even if only for a few minutes. It’s not the same, Ferdinand knows, but it was all he could spare. Now he feels the lack of time to spare like a heavy weight on his shoulders as he leads the way through the house. He has been here many times and his grandmother is a woman of habit. She is the reason, after all, that Ferdinand is normally a stickler for tea time.
The older woman is seated exactly where Ferdinand expected her to be: on her back porch, sipping her tea, and staring into the back garden. But the moment she hears their footsteps she has set her cup down and turned her head to greet them. She looks much the same as she did a few years ago: shockingly white hair, and if she stood she would only come to Ferdinand’s shoulders, but she worked regularly out in her garden and it showed in how toned her arms still are, the only thing new is that she maybe has a few extra wrinkles but Ferdinand has always loved his grandmother most.
Her shirt billows slightly when she holds her hand out to him without saying a word. It's only when he steps around the table and grabs her hand that he looks over his shoulder and realizes that they had purposely left him alone. His grandmother gives his hand a small tug and he instinctively falls into the chair closest to her. She stares at him for a very long moment, her amber eyes scanning his form and it takes all of his willpower to not fidget under the scrutiny. She reaches out with her free hand and gives his shoulder length hair a slight tug and says calmly, “You have not been taking care of yourself.” Ferdinand flinches slightly, unable to help himself and subconsciously prepares himself for a scolding but, “Even so I like the long hair. I think it suits you.” He snaps his head up so fast and the look on her face makes his eyes tear up, soft with worry but eyes bright with understanding.
“Grandmother I-”
“I am proud of you,” she interrupts, lifting her chin slightly. Ferdinand’s mouth clicks shut in shock, his eyes flickering over her face looking for… something. “I am proud of you,” she repeats, giving his hand a squeeze, “You have grown into a fine young man and I am proud to call you my grandson. I do not know what agreement you have made with my son but you can always come here.”
“If,” and his voice cracks, tears streaming down his face but he powers through, “if I give up now, he wins. I will have been wrong. I-” Ferdinand clenches his teeth and swallows back a sob to regain his voice, “I cannot take it.”
“The only way he wins, dear heart, is if you play his game. I do not know where I went wrong with him but I will not make the same mistake here.”
“I do not know what to do,” he whispers, his smiling mask cracked and showing the hurt man underneath. She gives his hand another squeeze making him look up at her. Her face is still soft but there is determination and mischief and love sparking in her eyes, “I believe I have an idea.”
Age 21
The air is cool and comfortable as Ferdinand carefully picks his way through the garden, pulling weeds all the way. His long hair is pulled back in a high ponytail and he is more covered in dirt than not. He was moving a little faster today, not taking his time as much as he normally would when it comes to tending to the plants, but that’s fine because he can just do it again tomorrow with more patience. Today however he wanted to be done as fast as possible because he is very much looking forward to carving pumpkins. Maybe it's a bit silly, possibly even childish but honestly he does not care. It has been so long since he’s felt this happy and free . And besides there is no age limit on enjoying Halloween. He’s not even supposed to be out here weeding but he wants to help his grandmother as much as possible, as a thank you for being willing to take him in and letting him work through some things.
The conversation with his grandmother that he had around this time last year had kickstarted something inside of Ferdinand. By the end of Wyvern Moon he had decided that, for now, this would be his last semester. The resulting argument between Ferdinand and his father had been ugly, to say the least. It had ended with his father kicking him out and telling him “to only come back when he had come to his senses”. It had stung badly then, and still does on bad days, but being able to do things he enjoyed again and having people around him that only wanted him to be the best version of himself has helped more than he could ever say. Which is why he works extra hard to help around the house. That is not to say that he is doing nothing, he got a job about 30 minutes away at a small coffee shop that Evelyn frequents. It’s simple but right now that is exactly what he needs, plus it gives him time to plant things.
“Ferdinaaaand,” Edelgard singing his name brings him back to the present and without turning he calls back, “I’m out here!” It takes them a moment or so to traverse the house and greet Evelyn and his grandmother but then the tell-tale sound of the porch door swinging open tells him he is no longer alone outside. After standing and stretching, Ferdinand turns to greet his guests. They are both dressed far more casually than usual, old t-shirts and jeans probably a good thing if Ferdinand is honest. He flashes them a smile and before he can even say anything Hubert deadpans, “You’re filthy.”
“Hello to you too, Hubert,” Ferdinand responds drily with a roll of his eyes. Edelgard sighs, “Don’t you two start now. We just got here.” Ferdinand throws a dramatic hand over his heart, “Edelgard! You wound me! I am entirely capable of being perfectly civil!” A long pause, “For at least ten minutes.” They both laughed, although Hubert hid his behind a hand and a cough. Ferdinand lets the dramatics fall away and gives them a genuine smile, “Well enough of that! Come on! I know the two of you are probably not as excited as I am but-”
“Oh hush with that,” Edelgard admonished with a light slap to his arm, “I for one am excited since I’ve never carved a pumpkin.” Ferdinand’s stride stuttered slightly as he turned his head to look at her, “Never.”
“Never,” Hubert affirms from the other side of Edelgard, giving him a look over the top of her head. “It was not something either of our parents did,” He elaborates as they near the little area Ferdinand had set up earlier that day, “They would just buy fake pumpkins every year and plug them in.”
“Well,” Ferdinand huffs out as he plops down on the old sheet he had spread out a little ways away from the house, it has three pumpkins in the middle, plus knives, a few spoons, a sharpie to draw the faces, and a bucket for the pumpkin guts. “I do hope you’ll actually enjoy it but I have to warn you it is rather, uh, messy.” “We are aware,” Hubert drawls, “of what has to be done when you carve a pumpkin.” Ferdinand just flashes him a wicked grin and gestures to the pumpkins, “Well then since you know so much go ahead and grab a pumpkin. You two get first pick, you are guests after all.”
It really shouldn’t have taken them long to choose between the three pumpkins but between the bantering and bickering and teasing it took them about 30 minutes. After the three of them settled down comfortably on the sheet, each with their pumpkin, Ferdinand grabbed the sharpie and drew a circle around the stem of the pumpkin. He tilts his head to the side a few times before nodding, grabbing a knife and plunging it into the pumpkin. A loud snort stops him from pulling the knife out and he looks up, raising an eyebrow but Hubert is already waving him away saying, “No, no. Continue.”
Ferdinand shrugs at him, removing the knife and continuing to cut the top off the pumpkin as evenly as possible. Both Edelgard and Hubert are watching him intently and their eyes widen slightly when he pulls the top off and leans over the bucket to cut the excess off. Ferdinand pauses for a moment and once again raises an eyebrow at them, waiting. They exchange a look before Edelgard nods and proceeds to copy what Ferdinand had done. Ferdinand gives them a few minutes to get the top off before saying, “This next part is the gross part, I am afraid. You can use the spoons if-”
“Well, that should not be a problem for you,” Hubert interrupts with a smirk, as he sets the knife down and leans back on one hand, “After all you are used to being covered in filth.” It is playful banter, Ferdinand knows but the only comeback he can come up with is to give Hubert a truly evil grin, reach out and grab his wrist and plunge it right into the pumpkin. “I changed my mind,” Ferdinand announces, watching Hubert’s face go through the stage of grief with glee, “No spoons allowed.” Edelgard’s wheezing laughter is the only thing that breaks through silence that follows. Both men turn to look at her and she’s resting her face on her arm laughing so hard tears are rolling down her face. Hubert slowly pulls his arm back out of the pumpkin with a grimace and gives his arm a disgusted once over. After a moment he looks at Ferdinand very seriously and says, “You have won this time, Aegir.” The laughter that bubbles out of Ferdinand cannot be stopped and the next thing he knows he is joining Edelgard in tears. Hubert does his best to scowl at them but the smile that won’t be fought down ruins the effect entirely.
It takes them a while to settle down but once they do they all set into the cleaning and carving. Although Edelgards face when she put her own arm in the pumpkin almost sent Ferdinand back into hysterics. It takes them a few hours to finish them up and at one point when they’re cleaning up Edelgard says “Ferdinand, I almost forgot to ask: where did you get the pumpkins and how much do we owe you for them?”
“Oh!” Ferdinand blinks in surprise looking between Edelgard and Hubert who are staring at him expectantly. He fights the urge to run his fingers through his hair nervously, he does not want to spend time washing pumpkin guts out of it, “You, uh, you do not owe me anything! I grew them myself but even if I hadn’t I wouldn’t make you-”
“You,” Edelgard starts, eyes wide, “You grew them yourself?”
“I- Yes?” Ferdinand rubs the back of his neck sheepishly, his face flushing. “I have been growing a lot of things and when I realized I would actually get to enjoy my favorite time of year I asked permission to grow some myself.” He smiles slightly, his eyes crinkling, “I am actually rather proud of how they turned out considering this is my first try. And it’s a good thing I only planted a few of them because, goodness, they produced much more than I was expecting. But most vine plants are like that, especially gourds. Have you ever seen a squash plant? They produce so much it’s-” He slams his mouth shut with a click and his smile falls so fast it almost gives the other two whiplash, and he shakes his head, “I am sorry, when I get started I do not know when to stop.”
“Ferdinand-” Both Edelgard and Hubert start but stop looking at each other in surprise. Ferdinand appears to not have heard them regardless and gestures back to the house, “Let’s go eat dinner and by the time we’re done it’ll be time to light the pumpkins.”
Dinner is a drawn out affair, mainly because the lot of them keep telling stories and laughing. Edelgard told Ferdinands grandmother and Evelyn about him shoving huberts hand into the pumpkin and started laughing all over again, especially when Evie almost spit her drink out all over the man in question. By the time they’re all finished eating, night has settled in and Edelgard and Hubert still had a drive back to the college so after helping clean the kitchen up, the three of them went to grab their pumpkins and headed toward the front door.
“Why didn’t Evie carve with us?” Edelgard asks as they put the jack-o-lanterns on the steps.
“Hm? Oh,she’s going to carve some next week with some friends. I have plenty of them.” Ferdinand hums to himself a little as rearranges the pumpkins; they can’t take their pumpkins with them to the dorm room because they have nowhere to keep them. Which is fine with Ferdinand, the more decorations the better. “Who has the candles and the lighter?” He asks, turning slightly with one hand held out for the items in question. Hubert hands them over wordlessly and Ferdinand resumes his humming as he places a candle in each jack-o-lantern. He grins, steps back and gestures toward them, “Well? What do you think?”
“I think,” Edelgard starts, her smile turning into a sly grin, “that if Hubert had gone any creepier the monster under the bed would be jealous.” The snort Ferdinand let out was truly unattractive but he didn’t care, “Please, Hubert himself is scarier than that. It’s okay next time he can do much better.”
“‘Next time?’” Hubert repeats, raising an eyebrow and trying not to smirk. “Ah, well,” Ferdinand shrugs, embarrassed, “That is only if you want to of course. I plan to carve every year and-”
“I would love to do this again,” Edelgard cuts in and reaches out to squeeze his hand, “It was fun and I have never seen someone go through so many faces at once like Hubert did earlier.” Hubert had been nodding along with Edelgard until that moment but when she teases him he snaps his head to glare at her but she ignores him. That’s fine they have an entire car ride for payback. Ferdinand’s eyes flit from face to face looking for some proof that they’re lying but he finds none. He gives them a small smile and says “i do not want to kick you out but it is getting late and you do have over a two hour drive and I have some chores I have to get done before I go to sleep.” Both of them blink at him before Edelgard bursts out, “Oh! Of course we didn’t mean to overstay our welcome-”
“You didn’t,” Ferdinand says, cutting her off and giving her a sharp look, “I just don’t want you two driving late and sleepy. I’d say you could stay here but I know both of you cannot sleep if it’s not in your own bed.” Edelgard sighs and starts, “If you’re sure-”
“I am El. Do not worry. I would tell you if you ‘overstayed your welcome,’” he cuts her off again with a roll of his eyes. “Just,” and his face softens again, “Please be careful.” They say they will and make him promise to come to the Halloween party next weekend. Ferdinand waits until the lights from the car are long gone before walking back inside and locking the door behind him.
Age 22
Ferdinand is once again picking his way through the garden when Hubert arrives. He has been out here for a few hours now, watering and weeding. Ever since his grandmother’s fall a few months ago he had taken on more and more of the work in the house and the yard. Unlike Edelgard, Hubert does not announce himself as he walks through the porch doors but for once he won’t get the jump on Ferdinand because he is knelt down in front of a plant facing towards the door. Hubert’s dark clothes stand out amongst, well, everything out here so Ferdinand knows he’s there without even having to fully lift his head, “Hello Hubert.” The other man rumbles out a hello as Ferdinand gets back to his feet and wipes off his hands.
“I am surprised you agreed to still come even though Edelgard cannot be here but I am glad nonetheless,” Ferdinand says, stepping forward and around the taller man. Hubert lets out a quiet hum and begins to follow Ferdinand to the same spot as last year, “Spending time with you is not a chore, Ferdinand.” He says it with such ease and with the smallest amount of teasing that Ferdinand is glad he is walking ahead of him and is able to hide the flush on his cheeks. They had been growing closer the past few years but this past year has seemed to speed up the process. Between Edelgard focusing on graduating and her new girlfriend they are often left alone on outings and talking in group chats. In fact they have taken to talking regularly in their private chat far more often. Ferdinand is both glad for it and still dreads it. Feelings complicate things at the best of times and he knew he had a crush on the other man and had no intentions of acting on it. No need to ruin what they have by making a fool of himself, he can do that well enough without confessing his feelings.
“I thought,” Ferdinand starts, breaking the comfortable silence that had settled over them as they sat down on the sheet he had spread out just like last year, “That perhaps we could try something a little different.”
“How different can it be?” Hubert asks, raising a curious eyebrow. “Well,” and Ferdinand picks up a book that had been lying next to the pumpkins and hands it to him, “I know faces are the ‘basic’ carvings and I know how you prefer a challenge so I thought maybe, instead, we could pick one of the pictures out of this book and try to carve that instead.” The flush was back and Ferdinand really hoped Hubert was too busy flipping through the book to notice. Hubert’s face has softened slightly in surprise as he flicks through the stencils. A long moment passes as he looks through it and when he looks up at Ferdinand he’s smiling, “I think that’s a great idea. But are you sure you want to?” Ferdinand gives a noncommittal shrug and simply says, “It is never a bad thing to try something new.” Hubert’s smile widens slightly and he lays the book down, “Well let’s look and pick some out together then.”
Choosing a stencil, Ferdinand realizes, is far easier said than done. You have to choose the one that’s the right size for your pumpkin, one that will not be too difficult for a beginner, and one you actually like . After about an hour of trying different ones out on each of their pumpkins they both have found one they like and set to work.
“Please warn me if you’re going to shove my hand in the pumpkin again.”
“As long as you keep the snark to a minimum I shouldn’t have to.”
“I do not snark, Ferdinand.”
“Oh? And what do you call it then?” The question is only met with a wicked grin and a loud plop as Hubert tosses pumpkin innards into the bucket. Ferdinand rolls his eyes at him but doesn’t try to hide his smile. They spend the next couple of hours like that, talking, and the occasional quip and smile. It is much later this time when they get done, it taking far longer to carve than just a simple face. They had even stopped to eat about halfway through.
“That was,” Ferdinand says as they walk around the house to set the pumpkins on the porch, “Far more difficult than I imagined it would be.”
“It was not so bad,” Hubert reasons, shifting the pumpkin in his arms. Maybe Ferdinand should have given him one a little smaller. “I found it quite fun actually. Although,” and Hubert flashes him a smirk, “This one is not as creepy as the one I did last year.” Ferdinand throws his head back and laughs. “Are you disappointed?” He teases lightly as they both move to set their pumpkins down on either side of the porch. No one else would be carving this year so no point in arranging them on the steps, Evie wouldn’t be coming home this Halloween. Too many parties she had said last week during their facetime. Ferdinand had simply given her a look and moved the conversation along.
“Of course not,” Hubert says seriously, bringing him back down to earth, “I got to spend time with you.” The blush from earlier crashes over Ferdinand like a tidal and he is so very glad that it is dark out. “Hubert-”
“Edelgard,” Hubert interrupts in a rush, as if has to say this now or he never will, “Did not cancel on us because of studying.” The statement makes Ferdinand turn his head to look at him, a small frown tugging on his lips, “She didn’t?”
“No. That is not to say she doesn’t have to study but,” Here Hubert runs his fingers through his hair, a nervous habit that Ferdinand hadn’t seen since they were children, “But that is not the main reason.” Hubert stares at him for a long moment, his face as unreadable as ever. Ferdinand’s frown becomes a little more pronounced and he turns around entirely, “Hubert? Is something wrong?” The older man lets out a little laugh, sounding suspiciously self-decrepitating, “No. Yes? No, I have just spent the past week going over this in my head and now that I am here it is as if all of that has been thrown out of the window,” He moves as if to take a step forward but changes his mind halfway through and grips the sides of his jeans tightly. He meets Ferdinand’s eyes then, his gaze intent but Ferdinand could see a flicker of fear there and so he takes a slight step forward, “Hubert-”
“I thought, perhaps it was more of a hope, that I was being obvious,” Hubert interrupts him, unintentionally loudly if the slight flinch is anything to go by, “But. Ferdinand. Oh hell, what the hell. I like you,” Hubert says all of that in a rush of air as if expelling something from his chest. Ferdinand feels his eyes widen and his mouth go slack as he stares at the object of his affections continue rambling in a way he’s never seen, “That is to say I like you and I have for some time now. Probably since you shoved my hand in that damn pumpkin. Maybe before. Like I said I thought I was being obvious but either I haven’t and you never knew or- oh hell- or you knew and you don’t feel the same and I just ruined -” Ferdinand knows it’s rude to interrupt people when they’re talking but he thinks he has the right of it when he grabs Hubert by the collar of his old t-shirt and presses their lips together. Hubert freezes entirely on the impact and Ferdinand goes to pull back, thinking perhaps he overstepped, when the older man surges forward with more enthusiasm than Ferdinand thought possible. Ferdinand cannot help the little laugh he lets out but he feels Hubert smile in response so he figures it is okay.
They stay like that for a few moments, their mouths meeting and parting until the need for air was too great. They break away from each other and Hubert leans his forehead against Ferdinand's, looking down at him with the softest expression Ferdinand has ever seen aimed in his direction. “Oh,” Hubert says, his breath ghosting over Ferdinand’s face. “Oh, indeed,” Ferdinand teases, causing Hubert to pinch his side and make him squeak. Ferdinand pouts up at him and feels the chuckle rumble through Hubert before he hears it. They stay like that for another moment or two before Hubert leans back to fix Ferdinand with another one of his intense stares, “If you do not have anything planned for tomorrow night-”
“I do not-”
“Then allow me to take you out,” Hubert’s mouth quirks up, “On a date. A proper one. Edelgard was sweet when she planned to leave us on our own today but I believe I’d like to take you somewhere without any pumpkin guts.” Ferdinand laughs again, “Are you saying you don’t enjoy the idea of pumpkin guts on a date? You wound me Hub-” Hubert cuts off his teasing with another kiss and when they part this time Ferdinand says, “I concede. No pumpkin guts.” Hubert rolls his eyes and steals another kiss before sighing and leaning back once again, “Then I should get going. I do have a drive to make. Tomorrow?”
“Tomorrow,” Ferdinand affirms, a bright smile breaking across his face. Hubert leans down to kiss him one more time and gives his hand a squeeze as he steps back and towards the car. And if Ferdinand watches him drive away with a hand touching his lips that’s his secret.
Age 23
“I am not going to be stuck by myself with you two lovebirds,” Edelgard had announced a week ago making both Ferdinand and Hubert splutter indignantly “I’ll just bring Bernadetta,” Which is both a great and sweet idea. She just didn’t think that this is how it would end up: with Bernadetta covering her mouth with one hand, Edelgard rolling around on the sheet laughing, Ferdinand trying very hard not to join her, and Hubert with his face covered in pumpkin guts. “O-oh Hubert I am so sorry-”
“It is okay Bernadetta,” Hubert says calmly as he pulls the pumpkin off his face, “You didn’t mean to. However,” Hubert scoops up a handful and tosses it at Edelgard, hitting her in the stomach and making her gasp, “I absolutely meant to do that.” Ferdinand lets out a wheezing laugh and Edelgard gives him an evil look that he recognizes, “No El don’t!” But she ignores him in favor of throwing pumpkin guts right into his face. Ferdinand sputters for a moment and spits out what little got in his mouth, returning the evil look she gave him right back. Edelgard smiles at him angelically as both Hubert and Bernadetta try to stifle their laughter. “Bernadetta,” Ferdinand says, pretending to be heartbroken, “A true betrayal!” Bernie squeaks slightly and looks as if she was about to apologize when a glob hits her in the chest. They all stare at each other for a long moment before Edelgard grabs another handful and launches it right at Hubert. The resulting pumpkin fight lasted for at least an hour, making a huge mess of that section of the yard.
Bernadetta hums quietly as she carefully pulls pumpkin out her girlfriends hair and drops it into the bucket. Ferdinand joins her as Hubert does the same to his hair. “Remind me,” the older man drawls, “To never let you do anything like this again. The color almost blends in with your hair, Ferdie.”
“Maybe I should just shave my head bald,” Ferdinand deadpans and without seeing his face he knows Hubert is grimacing as if he said something truly horrible. “All done,” Bernie announces, “I got it all out but it will still need to be washed later.” Edelgard lets out a relieved sigh and leans her head back to stare at her, “Do you want me to do yours now?” Bernie shakes her head, “I didn’t get much in my hair and it’s short enough on top to not matter.” Edelgard yawns and hums out an “Okay,” as Bernadetta wraps her arms around her shoulders and lets her relax back on to her.
“I am going to be here all day,” Hubert grumbles, but his hands don’t stop moving through his boyfriend's hair. “Keep it up Hubert and one day when you’re going to come over and I won’t have any hair,” Ferdinand quips back, earning him a tug on his hair, “Ow, if you’re going to pull it I will just wash it out myself later.” But Hubert ignores him and continues to pull pumpkin and pumpkin seeds out piece by piece.
“I am sorry Ferdie,” Bernie says after a few moments of silence. Ferdinand turns his head ever so slightly to see her face and says with a frown, “For what?”
“For this,” she gestures to the mess they have all made and whispers, “I know we were supposed to carve pumpkins but-”
Ferdinand tugs his hair out from Huberts hands, making the older man make a quiet noise of protest, and turns to face Bernadetta head on, “You have nothing to apologize for. It is not about the carving it is about the company,” He gestures with his hand, “Plus we had just as much fun if you couldn’t tell. But I do think we may need to start getting cleaned up if we want to make it to the Halloween party on time.” Edelgard and Hubert nod their agreement but Bernie’s face pales a little at the mention of it.
“Bu-but do we have to go?”
“Bernie, we’re the ones holding the party this year. It will be okay, you can stay by me the whole night if you need to, okay?” Bernadetta nods reluctantly and Edelgard gives her a bright smile.Ferdinand gets to his feet and holds his hand out to each of them in turn to pull them up. Hubert drapes an arm around his shoulders as they all back towards the house.
“What about the mess, Ferdie?”
“It’s okay, I’ll clean it up tomorrow.”
Age 24
There was a while, and Ferdinand would never admit this, where he avoided anything to do with the group of friends Edelgard and Hubert had amassed over the years. It was some time after they graduated high school and they were constantly out doing things and Ferdinand just couldn’t bring himself to join in. Of course all of the extra stuff his father had insisted he do at that point if he wanted to go to a college he didn’t approve of was a part of it; but sometimes he just couldn’t shake the feeling that no one really wanted him there. It wasn’t until Edelgard and Hubert showed up and forcibly made him take a break that he really got to know them. Sometimes, like now he supposes, he feels a little displaced but he can normally ignore it until it fades into the background.
Right now he’s sitting at the dining room table that is covered in board games, watching as Hubert proceeds to beat everyone soundly at Monopoly. Caspar turns his slowly deepening scowl over Ferdinand and says, “You should be playing! Maybe you could turn the tides!” Ferdinand instantly shakes his, “Oh no, do not drag me into this. You all wanted to play board games knowing how he is, that is your own fault.” Caspar grumbles and Hubert smirks at him from across the table. After last year everyone had sworn off full blow parties, deciding it best to just continue the tradition of spending time together. It had been Caspar’s bright idea to use this Halloween to rope everyone into playing board games; a dangerous idea considering Hubert’s habit of absolutely destroying anyone he’s playing against at most games. Caspar had thought that maybe if everyone did teams but Hubert they would still stand a chance.This has proven to be false however, and Ferdinand watches as Caspar hands more of the fake money over to Hubert with a frustrated face.
Ferdinand lets all of their talking become nothing more than white noise as he watches. He must doze off a little because Bernie gives him a little poke in the side, making him jump, and gives him a concerned look. He flashes his “I’m okay” smile at her and she grins back before turning to discuss something with Dorothea. Ferdinand rolls his aching neck, he definitely dozed off, and looks up to see Hubert staring at him with slightly narrowed eyes. Ferdinand merely raises an eyebrow at him before Hubert’s attention is brought back to the game by Caspar. The rest of the night goes by pretty fast, especially when Caspar announces he will never play another board game with Hubert again. Instead they all turn the lights out and watch horror movies before everyone leaves for the night.
As soon as they are on the road and Ferdinand is curled slightly underneath Hubert’s coat in the passenger seat Hubert says, “You were very quiet tonight.” Ferdinand hums in agreement and leans his head back against the seat, closing his eyes. He jumps slightly when Hubert reaches out to grab his hand and pull it into his lap. Hubert throws him his little half smile and Ferdinand smiles back before he promptly falls asleep.
Ferdinand doesn’t really remember getting from the car to his bed, he’s very thankful Hubert has his own key because he would not have been any help getting into the house. He wakes up the next morning to Hubert propped up on his side of the bed with a book in his lap and his reading glasses on. Ferdinand curls in tight against the other man and Hubert’s hand falls on his head and runs through his hair. They lay like that for a few moments before Hubert finally puts his book down and turns all of his attention onto his boyfriend,“You were very quiet last night.”
Ferdinand hums and smiles up at him, “You have already said that, love.” But Hubert does not smile back, in fact the crease in his forehead gets a little deeper, “Ferdinand.” Ferdinand sighs and goes to sit up but Hubert places a hand on him to stop him, “Edelgard texted me this morning saying everyone was asking about why you were so quiet.” Ferdinand clenches his jaw and refuses to look up at him as he replies, “I was just tired-”
“Ferdinand.”
“Hubert.” Ferdinand’s staring contest with Hubert’s legs only lasts a few more minutes before he lets out a loud huff and rolls over to glare up at the ceiling. The sheets and comforter are twisted tightly in his hands and his jaw is clenched.
“Ferdinand-”
“Sometimes,” Ferdinand interrupts before he can lose his nerve, “I feel as out of place as I did before.” He can feel Hubert frowning at him but he stubbornly won’t look him in the eye. “And for the past few months I have been feeling stuck. Stuck in a dead end job and just,” Ferdinand shrugs helplessly, “Like I am going nowhere. It is an exhausting feeling. I have not had much extra energy to expend.” Hubert reaches out and untangles one of his hands from the blanket and holds it tightly, “Why have you not said-”
“Because there is not anything anyone can do, Hubert,” and this conversation has already worn Ferdinand out and he has just woken up. He wants nothing more than to curl back up around Hubert and sink into the mattress and sleep the rest of the day away. But Hubert’s grip is unrelenting and he knows this conversation is far from over.
“You should have told me you’ve been feeling like this.”
“I did not want you to worry.” Hubert scoffs, “If you think not telling me something is going to keep me from worrying you are sorely mistaken.” Ferdinand smirks and finally turns his head to look him in his concerned face, “Oh, I know ‘mother-hen Hubert.’” Hubert scowls back at him but his face has softened some, a bit of the worry melting away. They lay in silence for a moment or two before Hubert speaks up again, “Have you thought about changing jobs?”
“Yes, of course.”
“And?”
“And-,” Ferdinand is gripping the blanket and his hand tightly once more, “And it is absolutely daunting. I don’t know what it is I want and I am comfortable where I’m at. But then I remember that there is nothing else I can do there besides what I’m doing. Then I spiral downwards because maybe I shouldn’t have left college but what would I even go for? It is a vicious cycle that I spiral into once I start thinking about it.” Hubert remains silent, staring at Ferdinand’s face with a frown but Ferdinand knows he’s just taking in what he said and thinking on how to help. Ferdinand does not rush him but gets comfortable again and rubs his thumb over the back of his hand waiting.
Hubert speaks up again after what feels like ages, “Have you-” and stops again, his brow crinkling as he thinks over what he wants to say once more. “Have you ever thought of selling the things you grow?” Ferdinand blinks once, twice, and then matches Hubert’s frown with his own, “Sell them?”
“Yes.”
“I- No? It is more of a hobby-”
“Yes, but you enjoy it.”
“I know that, Hubert but who would want to buy-”
“Lots of people like fresh produce, ourselves included.” Ferdinand’s frown deepens, “Where would I even-”
“You are friends with the owner of the cafe. I am sure they would be willing to let you sell a few things or even use some of the stuff you grow in their pastries.” Ferdinand stares at Hubert for a long time, thinking. He has to admit that the idea is good and has a lot of merit. He really does enjoy his time in his garden, it’s a lot of work but it's peaceful and his friends are always asking him for produce. The more he thinks about it the more he likes it and for the first time in months something like hope blooms in his chest.
“I will,” Ferdinand starts, giving Hubert a small smile, “Think about it.” Hubert grins, knowing full well that means he really likes the idea. He leans over and kisses Ferdinand deeply, and Ferdinand cannot help but let out a happy sigh. Hubert pulls back after a moment to smirk down at him and purr, “Now about the rest of our day off, have any ideas?” Ferdinand grins wickedly up at him. “I can think of a few ideas,” He purrs back, pulling Hubert on top of him. Ferdinand feels Hubert’s low laugh rumble through him before Hubert kisses him again.
Age 25
Edelgard had called Ferdinand a month ago and demanded to be put on speaker so Hubert could hear what she had to say as well. She had then proceeded to scold both of them saying that they were overworking themselves and that she wasn’t going to stand for it. Hubert had spluttered and she had told him to hush and he was taking a vacation whether he wanted to or not. Ferdinand had tried to tell her it was too early in his business for him to take any time off but she had cut him off with a, “I am sure that we, and I do mean all of us, could run your little shop for a week Ferdinand.” They spent the next hour arguing with her but eventually Bernadetta had cut in and said, “Edie has made up her mind, no amount of arguing is going to change it you know.”
The next week included Ferdinand and Hubert discussing what their vacation would entail. It was a lot of back and forth until Hubert had said, “Let’s go somewhere but you pick and let me know what it is you want to do.” Ferdinand had been surprised but pleased nonetheless, he’d been wanting to travel to certain places to show Hubert some of his favorite places that were not in Aegir or Enbarr. Although now that he is seeing Hubert look like he was going to faint just from watching Ferdinand walk around, maybe he should have picked a different spot.
The man in question is sitting on a log as far from the edge of the mountain as he could possibly get. Ferdinand had chosen this one because while it was high, it is incredibly safe (unless of course you decide to be reckless) and has a large area to move around without even the smallest fear of falling. The trees are scattered and to the left, from where Ferdinand is facing the view of the mountains head on, there is moss growing on the rocks that squishes down when you step on it. Ferdinand lowers his phone from where he had been taking a few pictures, closes his eyes and takes a long deep breath.
Hubert calls out his name and Ferdinand is relieved to hear that his voice is far more steady than it was a few moments ago. He turns to face him and flashes him a slight smile. Hubert looks momentarily dazed by… something? Before he smiles back and holds his hand out. Ferdinand’s smile tilts into a grin as he walks over to grab his boyfriend's hand. Hubert tugs him down but Ferdinand settles onto the rock instead, his back against the log and his legs kicked out in front of him. After a moment Hubert joins him, very carefully, on the ground. His grip on Ferdinand’s hand is rather tight but he doesn’t mind: if it makes Hubert feel better he could break his hand for all he cares.
They sit in silence for a long while just taking in the scenery. This isn’t the first hike they’ve been on today but it is their last so they can take the time to relax. It’s not until the sun starts to set that Hubert speaks up, “I do think this is my favorite one from today, even if the ledge spikes my anxiety like nothing else.” Ferdinand chuckles and gives his hand a light squeeze, “it is my favorite as well. It always has been.”
“How did you know this one was here? It is more hidden than some of the other trails we’ve been on today, which have worn me out just so you know.” Ferdinand cannot help the laugh that bursts out of him and Hubert shoots him an annoyed look that he knows isn’t genuine by the smile tugging on his lips. “I am sorry for wearing you out, my love,” Ferdinand teases, “I promise tomorrow I don’t have any hikes planned for tomorrow.” Hubert grunts and rolls his eyes, “I never said there was anything wrong with it and you haven’t answered my question. Ferdinand hums and adjusts his position to lean his head on his shoulder. Hubert wastes no time laying his own head on top of Ferdinand’s as he waits for him to speak.
“We used to come up here a lot,” Ferdinand starts, “My father, mother, my siblings, and I. It was my mother's favorite vacation spot because it’s cooler. She was never fond of the heat. I think I was about six or seven the first time we found this trail. The mountains have a peaceful aura to them anyway but this one.” He pauses for a moment before continuing quieter, “This one has always comforted me. When I could drive on my own I used to drive up here just to get away. Sometimes I’d bring my work but sometimes not. It’s been so hectic the past few years I haven’t been able to come up here. But I also haven’t needed it as much. I wanted to bring you because it is important to me and because you’re important to me. Plus,” and here Ferdinand grins, “There is no better time to come. I have seen it in every way: spring, summer, autumn, winter. But autumn is my favorite. I mean look at it. It’s gorgeous. The colors are phenomenal and the weather is perfect.” He picks his head back up and turns to look at Hubert only to find him already staring intently, “It is just a piece of me I wanted to share with you. Ferdinand finishes with, “Ah I am sorry. My mouth ran away from me again. Are you-”
But the rest of his question dies on his lips as Hubert reaches into his leather jacket and pulls out a small black. Ferdinand’s breath hiccups as he looks between the box and Hubert’s very serious face. “I have been planning this for some time,” Hubert starts quietly but no less intently, “Edelgard was in on it with the ‘forcing a vacation’. I wanted to go somewhere you loved but I knew it would be suspicious if I just asked so I had you plan it.” Hubert smiles softly and lets go of the hand holding Ferdinand’s to open the box. Inside is the most gorgeous ring Ferdinand has ever seen but he might be biased: it is a simple white gold ring with a single peridot in the middle but the band is made to look like tree branches are holding the stone. It is perfect. Ferdinand feels his eyes water as he looks back up at Hubert’s face. He’s smiling, bright and unabashedly and he shifts so he is on his knees holding one of his hands, “I love you, Ferdinand von Aegir. I will love you now, tomorrow, next year, and for the rest of our days and after. Will you do me the honor of being my husband?”
The tears flow freely as Ferdinand croaks out, “Yes, Hubert. A million times yes.” Hubert pulls him into a soft kiss before pulling away again to put the ring on his finger. Ferdinand stares at it for a long moment before choking out, “We will need to get you one-”
“I already have one,” Hubert says, reaching into the other pocket and pulling out another box. Ferdinand grabs it in shaking hands and opens and laughs lightly, it is the same kind of band but instead of white gold and peridot it has black rhodium for the metal and an orange sapphire for the middle. Gripping Hubert’s hand tightly he puts the ring on his finger and promptly tears up again. Hubert laces their fingers together, making the rings ting against each other. Hubert leans in and brushes his lips against Ferdinand’s before murmuring, “How about we get off the top of this mountain and go out to eat and celebrate properly?” Ferdinand laughs into his mouth, giving him one more quick kiss but pulling him to his feet, “I think that’s a great idea.”
Age 26
The air is cool outside and the trees are a brilliant shade of saffron. Ferdinand is dressed in a white tuxedo, his grandmother’s idea, and he fidgets nervously with his tie. Petra has already tied his hair up in a lovely braid. The music can be heard from his hiding spot in the venue. Bernadetta comes over to give him a kiss on the cheek and a squeeze on the hand before the music signals it’s her turn to walk down the aisle. Taking one more deep breath he turns to face his grandmother. She smiles at him from her spot on the loveseat in the changing room and he walks over to help her to her feet. She loops one arm carefully through his and uses the other hand to hold on to her cane. The music changes again and Ferdinand lets out a shaky nervous breath but she gives his arm a squeeze and he forces his shoulders to relax as they begin the walk.
Hubert is standing at the end of the aisle in his own lovely black tux. His eyes are bright and his arms are clasped behind his back and Ferdinand feels any nervousness seep out of him at the sight of him. Edelgard is at his back, grinning, as his best “woman” and on the other side Ferdinand has Bernadetta. When they reach the end of the aisle, Hubert unfolds himself and Ferdinand turns to his grandmother. She tugs his head down to press to his forehead and whispers, “I love you. I am proud of you and I am so happy to finally see you happy.” When she steps back he gives her a watery smile as Evelyn comes to help her to her seat. Hubert holds his hand out and Ferdinand takes it gladly. The two of them step towards the Officiant, more than ready to start the rest of their life together.
Age 33
The sound of small footsteps pitter pattering across the floor, a loud squeal, and Hubert's “I’ve got you now,” are the sounds that greet Ferdinand’s ears as he all but sprints up the steps into the house. He was running a little behind because a few customers took their time leaving the store but he knows Hubert wouldn’t have left without him regardless. He throws open the door as dramatically as possible and cries, “Oh I thought I heard a running pumpkin but I must have been mistaken!” He hears Hubert’s rumbling laugh and a loud squeal of “Papa!” and the next thing he knows is a blur of orange is running at a toddlers full speed directly at him. Ferdinand kneels down and scoops the toddler into his arms and says, “Oh! I seem to have caught the great pumpkin! Whatever shall I do with it?” The three year old squeals as Hubert tickles them from behind, “I believe we should cook it, my dear.” Another loud squeal and a “No! Daddy, daddy no eat me!”
Hubert’s gasp is so surprised it takes all of Ferdinand’s willpower not to laugh, “Don’t eat you? But what else are we supposed to do with pumpkins?”
“I’m not a pumpkin! I’m Riley!” Hubert shakes his head very solemnly and says, “I am sorry but my Riley is not a pumpkin.”
“Yes I am!”
“But why would my Riley want to be a pumpkin?”
“Candy!”
“Ah,” Hubert nods sagely, “of course how could I forget. It is trick-or-treating time isn’t it?”
“Yes!”
“Well then tiny Riley pumpkin how about your papa puts you down and you go get your bucket off the couch?” The sentence isn’t even fully out before Riley is squirming in Ferdinand’s arms crying “Put me down papa! Put me down!” The moment the toddler's feet hit the floor Riley is sprinting back into the living room to get their candy bucket. Hubert gives his husband a look and lets out a tired sigh. Ferdinand chuckles and pulls him into a hug, “Long day?”
“Riley hasn’t stopped running around since they woke up. I am terrified to see what they’ll be like on candy.”
“You did want a child, my dear.”
“Mhm,” Hubert hums in agreement before kissing his husband on the forehead, “And I have no regrets. Riley just has far more energy than I.”
Ferdinand takes a deep breath and lets his shoulders fall and relax into the embrace properly. Hubert gives him a once over with a small frown, “I think I should be asking you if it was a long day. You’re normally home by now on Saturdays.” Another long, suffering sigh leaks out of Ferdinand, “It was oddly busy today, everyone under the sun wanting pumpkins at the last minute to carve. It took one lady 15 minutes over closing time to pick one out.”
“Regretting going back to work, hmm?” Ferdinand uses the hand on Hubert’s waist to pinch him, making the older man jump and laugh, “I am just teasing you, love. I know you enjoy your job as much as I do mine.” It is Ferdinand’s turn to hum and smile up at his husband, “I also enjoy being able to come home to the two of you.”
“As do I,” Hubert mumbles before pressing a soft kiss to Ferdinand’s lips. They don’t kiss as often as they used to because-
“Ewww!” The two men break apart to look down at their grimacing toddler. Ferdinand puts a hand to his heart and says, “Riley! Why didn’t you tell us you want kisses?” Hubert scoops them up when they go to run away yelling “No!” Ferdinand and Hubert both attack Riley with kisses all over their face making them squeak out giggles and “no”s. After a few moments of teasing they relent on their attack of their toddler and Ferdinand says, “Tell me little pumpkin are you ready to go get all the candy?”
“Yes!” Hubert laughs and says, “Okay then let’s get you settled into the car to meet up with Auntie El okay?” Riley nods vigorously as Hubert carries them out the door. Ferdinand pauses in the doorway for a moment to catch his breath again before closing the door behind him and locking it. He must have taken too long in little Riley’s mind because Hubert had rolled down the window so they could yell, “Come on papa!” Ferdinand smiles and walks down the stairs to join his family.
Age 60
Ferdinand is seated beside his husband on the couch in the living room as Riley runs around trying to gather up the grandchildren for trick-or-treating. Their spouse is fighting with their youngest trying to get the youngest to cooperate and Ferdinand cannot help but smile. Riley throws them a pleading look and after a moment more of watching them run around Hubert rumbles out, “I think children who cannot listen to their parents don’t get to have any of the candy I have hidden.” Instantly all the kids freeze and turn to look at their grandfather and he raises a greying brow at them in return. Riley throws him a thankful glance as they are finally able to finish adjusting the costumes. When Riley asks if they’re all ready to go and get the chorus of ‘yes’ each child sprints to their grandparents and gives them both a hug and kiss on the cheek. Hubert promises them that if they are good for their parents while they’re out they will get candy tomorrow.
When the house is quiet once more Hubert tugs his husband into a cuddle on the couch and starts to run his fingers through his white hair. They lay like for some time before Hubert asks, “Why did we agree to let them all move back in with us?”
“Because we love our child and grandchildren,” Ferdinand answers immediately, “And we had the room.” Hubert grunts and grumbles, “It is always so loud.”
“You like the loud, my love.” The only answer Ferdinand gets is a huff and he hides his knowing smile, “It is not so bad and it is not forever. You know they’ve put an offer in on a house a couple of miles from here.” Hubert sighs, “Alright I concede.” A pause and then, “I do like having them here, even if it’s only for a little while.” Ferdinand smirks but doesn’t and allows his husband to attempt to lull him to sleep. Hubert truly thought Ferdinand had fallen asleep until, “Do you regret it?”
“Hmm?”
“This. Us. Our life. Do you feel like there were things we didn’t do?” Hubert hums and leans down to kiss the crown of his head, “No, I have no regrets. Do you?” Ferdinand sits up and turns around to give him a kiss, “None at all.” Hubert’s smile makes his face wrinkle which makes Ferdinand smile, “Good. I love you, Ferdinand.”
“And I love you, Hubert.” Ferdinand lets out a yawn and moves off the couch and holds out his hand, “We have the house to ourselves for a few hours. Let’s make the most of it.” A tight grip on his hand, another smile, and a reply, “Absolutely.” Ferdinand smiles to himself as he allows Hubert to pull him up the stairs to their bedroom. This life of theirs hasn’t been perfect but it’s theirs and they are happy and retired and have wonderful family and friends. And, most of all, each other. And as Hubert pulls him into another kiss as they back into the room, Ferdinand knows it has all been worth it. This would always be worth it.