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The last thing Alfred expected to happen on a cold, late December night was to get kidnapped.
One moment, Alfred was walking along the downtown area of the city with the hope of some of the shops being open so late. As usual, he let his procrastination take over when it came to Christmas shopping (and it was costing him dearly this year).
Then in the next moment, he was grabbed from behind by two unknown men. Both of them must be built well like he was, as Alfred struggled to get out their grip. They had his mouth covered before he even got a chance to cry out for help. It was impressive and scary how quickly the kidnappers managed to get him bound, blindfolded, and tossed into their vehicle. A gag replaced the hand that was on his mouth.
Alfred had no idea where he was being taken to. Wherever it was, it took a while to get there. He didn’t even try to keep track of how many left and right turns the driver made, as being blinded disoriented him too much.
It felt like forever when they finally must have reached their destination. Alfred first felt and heard the vehicle engine turn off. Then there was ruffling of clothing before Alfred was grabbed by the arms once more.
“You would be better off not fighting us, kid.” A man practically spat in Alfred’s ear. “That is, if you wish to possibly live at the end of this.”
Of course, Alfred was already scared at the fact that he may die soon. Getting that fear confirmed scared him even more. He didn’t put up a fight while he was dragged into the building. Similar to the ride there, Alfred was disoriented from the twists and turns down the hallways. He could have sworn that at one point they had gone in a circle.
After an indefinite period of time, Alfred was harshly pushed onto a chair, with his arms stuck behind him over the backrest of the chair. It put an uncomfortable strain on his shoulders.
The good news was that his kidnappers were kind enough to take off his blindfold and remove the gag. He coughed a little while his eyes adjusted to the lighting of the room. “What do you want with me?”
“You’ll see. The boss will handle everything.” The man who dragged Alfred into the room snickered. He left, shutting the door behind him with a clang.
Alfred used the alone time to get a look at his surroundings. The chair that he was sitting on was facing a desk. Based on the bookshelves behind the desk, the fancier chair, desk décor, and pictures visible, this must the workspace of the mastermind behind his kidnapping. The grey brick walls, tile floor, and low lighting gave the vibe of an office space in a warehouse basement.
For another indefinite period of time, Alfred was left to his thoughts again. Why him? He was just a chemist who was often working at the lab during wee hours of the night. He didn’t have many friends in London, only having moved there 3 years ago and was constantly focused on his work. Sure, he had his brother, but Matthew still lived in the U.S. There was also his lover…
“Oh shit, Arthur.”
How would Arthur react to his disappearance? Would he go to the police? Search for Alfred himself? Did Arthur even have enemies? It didn’t make sense in Alfred’s mind for that to be the case. As far as he knew, Arthur had a corporate monkey job. He was stuck in a boring office all day. It wasn’t like he was the CEO of the company he worked for or anything with a relatively high position on the corporate ladder.
At some point, Alfred got bored of his thoughts. With nothing better to do, he started to doze off. But that didn’t last longer than five minutes before the door behind him opened again.
“Alfred F. Jones! I hope you aren’t falling asleep on me already! I need you awake for this.” A different man said from the doorway. There was a French accent to his voice.
Alfred woke up instantly. How the hell did this guy know his name?! He tried to get a look behind him, but was restrained by his bonds.
“It’s okay. I won’t be hurting you…yet.” The French guy took a seat in the fancy chair behind the desk, allowing Alfred to get a look at him.
Upon seeing the guy for the first time, Alfred had to resist rolling his eyes. It made sense to him to now, why he was brought in here by brutes: the French guy looked super skinny with little muscle. Alfred thought he could probably easily beat the guy in a 1 v 1 fight. The blond color of his hair reminded him of Arthur, but the similarities ended there as it was longer and wavier. Darker facial hair covered his chin and jawline. Finally, the French guy’s cold blue eyes stared into Alfred’s own. They were darker than Alfred’s own shade of blue.
“What do you want with me?” Alfred tried to sound angry, but ended up with exasperation mixed with fear instead.
“You are quite close with my biggest rival, Archer. And he has something that I desperately want.” The French guy seemed pleased with himself for some reason.
Confusion made its way onto Alfred’s face. “You must have the wrong person. I don’t know anyone named Archer.”
At that revelation, the French guy’s eyes widened for a split second before going back to the previous facade. “Oh, he didn’t tell you anything about this, huh? Well, you may know him as Arthur.”
“There are many men named Arthur in England.” Alfred was surprised of the very straight face he managed to pull while saying the statement.
“Your constant denial is amusing. But regardless, what I say next is true.” The French guy pointed at Alfred. “Your dear Arthur is highly active in the mafia circle. All the Kirklands are.”
“Even if he was, he wouldn’t keep something this big a secret from me.” Alfred insisted.
“Do you really know Arthur Kirkland?” The French guy rose an eyebrow. “Did he ever come home late at night for seemingly unexpected reasons with work? Did he ever have you take a detour to a destination that seemed unnecessary? What about avoiding certain people on the street that seem innocent enough?”
Every second that the French guy talked, the harder it was for Alfred to deny what was happening. He wanted to confront Arthur about it, while at the same time to cry in denial in the corner of the room.
But he also cannot forget the possibility that this was all some diabolical, elaborate prank. Maybe he got targeted for a wannabe influencer’s shenanigans. Totally illegal, but totally possible. It was how he decided to cope with the pain in his heart from the idea of such a possible betrayal committed by the one person he loved most.
The French guy tsked. “Deny it all you want for now. Soon you’ll know the truth. The only thing you need to know is that I see what’s mine and take it. You will be the key to doing so.”
Alfred wasn’t sure if he even wanted to know what the French guy’s motive was. Nevertheless, he didn’t get a chance to ask, as the French guy left him alone in the room again.
~~~
Sleep sounded like the best thing in the world to Alfred. It was only followed by wanting to be back at the house with Arthur. He would give anything to forget what transpired in the last few hours.
Alfred did try to sleep, but he never actually slept for more than one hour at a time. His body position on the chair was uncomfortable enough to where full hours-long sleep seemed impossible. An alternative to sleeping was to let out all of his emotions. Whether through crying, screaming or both. But he had done that a while ago. He guessed that the room he was in was soundproof, as no one came to check in on him while he made all the noise he could. A second alternative was to try to break out of the ropes. But even if he did, where could he go? He would get lost long before escaping. The mafia group that kidnapped him knew what they were doing.
Things got more interesting the next time the door to the room opened. First, Alfred was finally allowed to use the toilet (after getting blindfolded again during transport, because he cannot see the hallways of the building lest he get any chance to escape). But it was extremely awkward as he was watched the entire time. It made sense though, considering they had to let Alfred have his hands free to do his business and with him being their prisoner. As soon as Alfred was done, he was bound and blinded once again for transport.
Back at the French guy’s office, Alfred was placed in the uncomfortable chair again. He noticed that the chair had been moved. Instead of facing the French guy’s chair, he was now next to it behind the desk.
It was here that Alfred had been given his first glass of water since arriving. He downed the liquid as quick as he could, wanting to get every last drop. The joy did not last for long, as Alfred was gagged again. A feeling of dread washed over Alfred. Something was going to happen really soon, and it’ll most likely be bad for him.
Two minutes after the brutes got Alfred situated for the upcoming events, the French guy entered the room.
“Bonjour, Alfred.” The French guy had the nerve to wink at his captive. “How did you sleep?”
All Alfred did was glare in response. Even if he could speak, he wouldn’t have provided an answer.
The French guy did not seem to mind that he didn’t get a reply. “I’ve slept well, thank you.” He sat in the fancy chair. “All you have to do is be quiet and sit pretty. If everything goes well, you could still possibly live once all of this is over. That is, when Archer agrees to my demands.”
Not if, when. This guy was quite confident that his plan will work. The arrogance made Alfred want to roll his eyes. But his fear for the situation at hand made him reconsider. Maybe the French guy was in such a position that he had all the power. Alfred could only hope that was not the case.
The door to the office opened. A brute entered the room and stood in front of the desk. “Boss. Archer has arrived as expected. He wishes to speak with you, and has agreed to the terms of having all weapons removed from his person prior to entering this room.”
“Bien. Let him in.” The French guy chuckled with glee.
Alfred watched the brute leave the room as quickly as he entered. A few moments later, three new figures appeared, and only one of them caught his attention. Being flanked by two more brutes, Arthur Kirkland entered the room. He was dressed in a heavy coat that Alfred did not remember ever seeing. Alfred envied the cool, neutral expression that his lover held on his face. If the situations were reversed, Alfred was confident that his emotions would have taken over right then and there. Hell, he already showed too much emotion in front of the French guy.
“Florian.” Arthur said the name with such seriousness and suave that Alfred was sure that if it was any other time, he would be swooned if it was his name that was said instead.
“Archer. So glad that you can make it today.” The French guy, whose code name was apparently Florian, smiled pleasantly. It was so pleasant that it was almost as if no one’s life was in danger.
“You have something that belongs to me.” Arthur got straight to the point.
“As you do that belongs to me.”
The two mafia bosses stared at each other in standoff for a few moments. Alfred’s gaze darted between the two in anxiety.
“Let him go.” Arthur nodded towards Alfred. “He has no business here. He’s innocent and not involved in any of the underground activities within London or the surrounding areas.”
“I’d be happy to let him go, for a price.” Florian said.
“I can offer up districts 6 and 11 in exchange. And all the funds associated with those districts.” Arthur immediately responded, seemingly well-prepared for this encounter.
“Oh, Kirkland. I don’t need those territories back. Nor your cash.” Florian’s gaze was trained on Arthur’s. “What I want, is you.” He pointed at Arthur.
“What?” The demand caught Arthur off guard. His neutral façade fell apart for a bemused look.
“You see, what you have inadvertently stolen was my heart.” Florian flipped his hair over his shoulder dramatically. “Ever since our first meeting as mafia leaders. I say it was love at first sight.”
Alfred grew immensely uncomfortable as he listened to Florian drone on and on about his love for Arthur. He took a peek at Arthur, and saw that he too looked uncomfortable. It was safe to say that the feelings were not mutual. That made Alfred feel a tad better.
“Here’s my offer to you.” Florian stood up. He extended his arms into the air. “Join me as a co-leader, my consort, and in turn unite our clans together. All I ask is this, and your precious Alfred will be freed.”
“You’re insane!” Arthur shouted. “I hope you don’t treat everyone that you love this way.” He snuck a quick glance to Alfred before focusing on Florian.
“Oh. OH. You don’t get it.” Florian reached for something near his hip. “Ever since I became head of the Bonnefoy clan, I’ve had my eyes on some of the Kirkland territory, particularly the regions you hold now. And then you took over those regions from your father. It was unintentional to fall for you like this, but I cannot take back my feelings now. Besides, you don’t have much of a choice in this matter.”
Alfred eyed Florian, wondering what he was planning. He figured it out very quickly when suddenly there was a gun aimed at his head. His eyes widened with fear. So this was when he died. Right in front of Arthur, to make things worse.
“You wouldn’t dare.” Arthur growled.
“I mean you could technically refuse my offer, but…” Florian gestured his head towards the gun. “Anyway, I warned you, Archer, to keep an eye on those who you care about the most. Who knows what will happen to him if you refuse.”
“Cut the crap, Francis. This has crossed a line. I thought blackmail would be too low for your schemes. But I was wrong about that.” Arthur took a step towards Florian/Francis, but the guards behind him pulled out their weapons and aimed them at his back, forcing him to freeze.
Francis chuckled darkly. “Maybe I should give you a few minutes to think about everything.” He looked between Alfred and Arthur. “I know, I’ll let you decide with Alfred! You’ll even get some last-minute alone time together! But try anything funny, and the guards will be on you before you know it.”
The gun that was held towards Alfred was put back in its holster. The gag that was on Alfred’s mouth was removed. Even with the regained freedom of speaking, Alfred remained silent. However, the ropes still held Alfred’s arms behind his back. He watched Francis and Arthur give each other looks before Francis left the room. The two guards behind Arthur stationed themselves by the doorway, blocking the only exit.
“Alfred.” Arthur wasted no time getting behind the desk where Alfred was at. He knelt down and cupped Alfred’s cheek. “Did they hurt you in any way?”
“No, thank god.” Alfred relaxed with Arthur’s touch. “Just dragged around, really.”
Arthur seemed content with that answer. “Love, I’m so, so sorry that you’re in this position. It should have never happened in the first place.”
Alfred was ready to confront him about the secrets being kept, but seeing Arthur lose his composure in an instant made him pause. Instead, he let the pain of betrayal run rampant within his chest.
“I’ve kept so much from you.” Arthur looked as if he was trying not to cry. “In reality I should have told you sooner, but I thought I managed to keep our relationship hidden enough to where he wouldn’t find out.”
All Alfred wanted to do in that moment was to hug Arthur. Stupid ropes.
“How much has Francis told you about me?” Arthur asked.
“He only told me that you and the Kirkland family are involved within the mafia. And that you go by Archer.” Alfred sniffed loudly. “Is ‘Francis’ Florian’s real name?”
“Yes. Florian is his mafia name.” Arthur glanced back at the door guards for a split second.
It took Alfred a moment to begin asking the real questions. “Why? Why did you keep this from me?”
For the first time, Arthur could not maintain eye contact with Alfred as he replied. “I originally didn’t tell you simply because it wasn’t relevant. What would be the point if we didn’t see each other again should the early dates go terribly? But then after we got serious with each other, I kept thinking that maybe if you didn’t know, you would be safe. I cannot tell you how many times I’ve thought about telling you. But I’m a coward. I’m a coward who kept his mouth shut and now we’re both paying the price for it.”
“You should have told me.” Alfred held back his own tears from falling.
“I know.” Tears fell across Arthur’s cheeks now. “I should have told you, instead of having the wanker reveal everything himself.”
“I…” Alfred’s words got themselves caught in his throat.
“I know it’ll be hard for you to forgive me. I would understand if you never did. But I want you to know that I regret my actions that led you to being here. If I could go back and change what I did, I would. No matter the cost.”
Both men were openly crying now. “Arthur? Can you just…hold me for a moment? I would, but…” Alfred moved his shoulders slightly to indicate his bonds.
Arthur moved himself so that he was kneeling between Alfred’s legs. He engulfed Alfred in a hug. The closeness provided a small sense of safety, which was enough to allow the two to let their tears out. They stayed like that for at least five minutes, relishing in each other for what could be the last time.
“What are you going to do about Francis’s demands?” Alfred asked.
Arthur pulled away from Alfred so that they could look at each other once more. “As much as we probably were both hoping for otherwise, I really don’t have much of a choice but to accept.”
“What?! But you can’t!” Alfred struggled to keep his voice down.
Arthur put a hand on Alfred’s mouth. He looked at the guards standing by the door. When they didn’t move, Arthur removed his hand. “I have to if I want you out of this alive. If I refuse, he’ll kill you and take me anyway. I rather have you alive than dead.”
“But…” As much as he wanted to rebuttal, Alfred couldn’t come up with one.
“I’m doing this for you, Alfred. It’s my fault that you got caught in this mess. I’m going to get you out of it no matter what it takes. Even if it means I have to accept the proposal.”
“Is there anything that I can do when I get out of here?” Alfred lowered his voice to a near voiceless whisper. “To help you?”
“It would be best for you to go to Alistair. He should provide you with protection while working on a plan for me.” Arthur checked to make sure that the guards wouldn’t be able to see what he was about to do. He took out a piece of green tissue paper and stuck it inside Alfred’s shoe. “Give him that paper when you find him. He’ll know what to do.”
“I will.” It was a promise.
Arthur stood up and brushed the imaginary dust off of his clothes. He addressed the guards in the same professional tone from the beginning. “I have come to my decision. Let Florian know of the news.”
The guards turned for a few moments to convey the message.
“I love you, Alfred. I will never love you more than anyone else.”
“I love you too, Arthur.” If only he could kiss his lover right now.
By the time Francis returned, Alfred had managed to calm his emotions down to match Arthur. Meanwhile, Arthur stood at the exact same spot on the opposite side of the desk from when previously talking to Francis.
“I hear you’ve made a decision, mon ami. What is it?”
“We’re not friends.” Arthur snapped. “I will accept your demands. I’ll exchange myself for Alfred’s freedom.”
“Excellent!” Francis laughed. “I knew you were a smart guy.” He looked over at Alfred. “Looks like you get to live another day, as promised.”
Alfred settled with a nasty glare. He flipped Francis off behind his back. Then the guards were on him again. They got him out of the chair and blindfolded again. He felt himself get dragged out of the room.
“Make sure he’s still alive when you release him.” Francis called out. “I’m a man of my word.”
The men handling him seemed to be in a hurry. The trip to the vehicle felt much shorter this time. Although not even a few minutes into the drive, a rag of some sorts was held to Alfred’s mouth. It made him involuntary inhale. Whatever was on the rag smelled a little sweet.
“It’ll be a while before we get to our destination. Sleep well.” The brute taunted.
Fuck. Chloroform.
It took two minutes for Alfred to pass out.
~~~
Alfred awoke to the sound of birds. Then he felt his head ache. Grunting, he opened his eyes. He was not expecting to see trees.
“Huh?” Slowly, he sat up to look around. Why was he in a forest? Why was he so cold? He looked down to see nasty wounds on his wrists. His eyes widened as memories of what happened came back to him.
“Arthur!” Alfred quickly stood up, ignoring the feeling of his body slowly freezing. He paused at feeling something rub against his foot. Curious, Alfred emptied out his shoe. A piece of green paper fell to the ground. He picked it up to examine it. He remembered how and why it was put there.
Alfred looked around. He was alone in a forest with only the clothes on his back. He had no idea where he was, or where to go. But he was alive, like Francis promised. He had an objective for what to do next, and it started with the paper he held in his hand.
“I’ll get you back, Arthur. No matter what it takes.”