This beautiful piece is from the incredibly talented @caesurables and I commissioned it for the next chapter of Without Her. It's not finished yet but here's an accompanying snippet because it's still Father's Day here.
Chris smiled fondly and put her hand on Roy’s shoulder. Beth was gurgling happily in her father’s arms. The little scut was the light of her father’s life. This was a side of Roy she wished Riza was here to see.
"How is my baby girl?”
"An absolute angel, Roy-boy,” she replied.
"Do you hear that, Beth?” Roy chuckled as Beth reached for his nose. "You are the most wonderful little girl in all the world.”
"Be careful there, Roy, or you’ll raise a little entitled princess.”
He kissed Beth’s temple. "She is my princess. After all, Riza was my queen.”
Chris rolled her eyes. "Don’t say I didn’t warn ya, kid.”
Please go tell Mica how amazing she is! The art is so beautiful and baby Beth is perfect. The expressions are amazing and I'm still crying about it. Thanks so very much for this Mica!
It’s from my Without Her universe and features my Royai daughter OC, Beth. I love her and would do anything for her. This can be read without any knowledge of the universe.
Summary: It’s Roy’s birthday and Beth wants to surprise her dad.
Happy Birthday Dad
Shaking with excitement Beth Mustang crept out of bed. It was her dad’s birthday and she wanted to surprise him with breakfast. She quickly and quietly got dressed listening out all the while for her dad. Sunday was the one day he had a lie-in, so she crossed her fingers he was still in bed. Opening the bedroom door gingerly, she looked down the hall to her dad’s bedroom door. It was still closed. Smiling, she went back to her room to get the handmade birthday card she had hidden under some books on her dresser. His present was in her school bag. Her grandma had helped her wrap it on Friday before her dad came home from work. She grabbed that too before tiptoeing down the stairs. She met Hayate at the foot of the stairs and she put a finger to her lips. Hayate might be old but he really was a clever dog. She let out a sigh of relief when she reached the kitchen.
“We have to be quiet, Hayate, we’re going to surprise Dad.”
Hayate tilted his head and wagged his tail. Beth filled a small jug with milk, poured a glass of orange juice and filled a bowl of cereal.
“Where did he put the tray?”
She found it in the cupboard under the sink. She proudly placed the jug, glass and bowl on the tray.
”He’s going to be so surprised, Hayate.”
The dog let out a low bark and Beth hushed him again. She left the present and the card on the table not wanting to risk spilling anything.
Beth went up the stairs carefully, Hayate trailing after her. She put down the tray and knocked on her dad’s door.
“Beth? C’mon in, sweetheart.”
She opened the door and bent down to pick up the tray. “Happy birthday, Dad.”
Her dad sat up in bed and smiled. It was a huge smile.
“What’s this, Beth?”
”What does it look like?” She put the tray down on the bed beside him. ”It’s your breakfast.”
He threw his head back and laughed. ”Did you do all this on your own?”
“Of course, I did. Hayate supervised me though.” She sat on the edge of the bed and he pulled her into a hug.
“I don’t deserve you.”
She looked at the tray and realised she forgot the spoon.
“You might need a spoon for the cereal.” She stood up with a sigh. “Stay there, Dad. I’m going to get your present and your card too.”
“Yes, Boss.”
She hung back in the doorway for a minute. ”Dad, I know I made you breakfast but are we still going to Grandma’s for brunch?” She hoped they were. Grandma did a good brunch although nobody could make pancakes like her dad.
“Of course, sweetheart.” He winked. “Gotta let her spoil me on my special day too.”
"Roy couldn’t resist taking a few photographs. He ignored the smug voice in his head that sounded suspiciously like Hughes." - First Day
I am so thrilled to show you this masterpiece by the incredibly talented and wonderful @themusicalbookworm of my OC, Beth Mustang. (Yes, a Royai child!!!) Beth is from my Without Her verse and I am so thrilled to see her brought to life here. Gio is currently raising money for her next EP. In case you didn't know, she is also an incredible singer/songwriter as well as an artist and writer.
Gio, thank you so much for drawing this for me! I'm really emotional about this stunning piece. I'm so in love with it. 😍 This is such a beautiful picture and it captures Beth perfectly.
Summary: Roy has to learn how to muddle through when he loses Riza and is left to raise their little daughter on his own.
This chapter: Roy takes Beth to the office and Chris has some bonding time with her two favourite kids.
Also on AO3
Chapter Thirteen
Beth slept peacefully in Roy’s arms. In her slumber, she had latched onto one of his fingers with her hand. Havoc chattered in the driver’s seat, but the General was only half listening. His stomach roiled as Headquarters came into view. Havoc had insisted on driving him. He had finally worked up the courage to visit the office.
The blond parked the car and turned to look at the General. “You ready, Boss?”
Roy automatically held Beth closer to his chest. “Took me weeks to work up to this. I’m as ready as I’ll ever be.” The First Lieutenant walked around and opened the door for him. Roy got out as carefully as possible, trying his best not to disturb his cargo. Her eyes fluttered open despite his best efforts.
“Well, it looks like someone’s awake. Want to see where Daddy works, huh?”
He ignored Havoc’s snigger from behind him. “I’ll grab the bag, sir.”
Maybe he should have brought the pram? Still, he felt this would be easier to move through the building and less noticeable. It would also save him from having to shake hands. In addition, he would be less likely to be waylaid with small talk.
He looked at the familiar doors, and for a moment, he considered going back to the car. Then, forcing himself to step forward, he stepped over the threshold. It felt like a lifetime ago since he had been here last.
Not since before -
Walking through the corridors of Eastern Headquarters with Beth in his arms didn’t feel quite real. It was like Roy’s two worlds were colliding. He tried to ignore the heaviness in his chest, and he bit his lip. He shifted Beth in his arms, holding her closer. The corridors were relatively quiet, and they passed a group of lower rank officers. The men did a double-take but didn’t approach them. Roy kept his eyes forward and increased his pace.
“Place still look the same, Boss?”
The General looked over his shoulder; Havoc stood a step behind him where Riza should be standing.
“Yes and no.” He chuckled darkly. It was the same, and yet he saw it with different eyes. “The world keeps on spinning,” he murmured. Even if you feel like you stepped off the edge, the world’s not going to stop to let you back on. Somehow, you need to catch up.
Beth whimpered in his arms. They say babies can sense your emotions, and he hated causing any distress to his daughter.
“Hush,” he whispered. “It’s okay.”
Havoc matched Roy’s stride. “We can come back another time if you prefer.”
The dark-haired man shook his head. “No, I need to do this.”
Havoc just nodded. “If you’re sure, sir.”
He looked down at his daughter’s face, and that was all the strength he needed. “I am.”
As Roy turned the corner, he barely avoided walking into a man who stepped out right in front of him. “Mustang?”
Irritated at the man for being rude and himself for not being more careful, he barked. “Watch it, Colonel Bryce!” He would have corrected him for not addressing him by rank - mainly due to the smug look on his face - but he, Roy, was wearing his civvies. From what Havoc had told him, the man had been sniffing around his team for weeks. He was desperate for a leg up the ladder, and Havoc was sure he aimed for Roy’s job.
“Pardon me,” Bryce said, sounding anything but. He jerked his head towards Beth and lifted an eyebrow. “Babysitting?”
“I am looking after my daughter, Bryce,” Roy said, his voice calm. “Besides, I am only stopping by for a short visit and intend to pick up some paperwork. You will be delighted to hear that I will be here again on Friday during office hours if you’ve any questions about my team.”
The man’s mouth worked, but nothing came out.
“Goodbye, Bryce.”
Roy heard Havoc chuckle behind him. As he walked through the busy corridor, he could feel eyes watching him and inclined his head at a few greetings. To his relief, nobody else approached him. He wasn’t sure if it was the look on his face or the impossible pace that kept them away.
When they arrived at the office, he could hear the rest of his men chattering inside. He swallowed the lump forming in the throat. Riza would never step into this office again, put her hand on his shoulder, tell him off for not completing his paperwork. He blinked away the tears forming in this eyes. He knew he would going to have to face this at some point.
“Boss?”
Roy cleared his throat. “I’m alright, Havoc. Just give me a moment.”
He stepped in the door, and heads turned in his direction. Fuery almost fell over himself in an attempt to salute.
The bespectacled man was the first to speak, “General Mustang, sir?”
Breda nearly fell out of his seat. “Boss?”
Falman stood up. “It’s good to see you, sir.”
“And you brought the baby,” Fuery squeaked and stood up. “Sir, we missed you.” He came over to an amused Roy and wrung his hand.
When Roy let go of the younger man’s hand, Falman shook his hand, and Breda clapped Roy on the back.
He watched Fuery fawn over Beth. “Wow! She’s grown so big since the last time I saw her. Can I hold her?”
Roy nodded and passed her to Fuery careful to make sure he was holding her correctly. Falman joined him, and the pair started cooing. Roy’s lip twitched, but he kept a beady eye on the safety of his offspring.
Havoc winked. “I see you’ve got this. I better go and fetch Becca because she will kill me otherwise.”
Fuery clutched the baby to his chest. “I’m your Uncle Kain, and this is your Uncle Vato.”
“Hello, Beth,” Falman said softly.
“Don’t worry; they are not going to drop her.” Breda had crept up behind him. “I think they’re in love.”
“She has that effect on people.” Roy looked around the room. It looked so bare without Riza. He almost expected her to walk in holding some paperwork in her arms, telling him off for lounging around. But, instead, he realised Breda was talking to him again. “Sorry, I missed that. What did you say?”
The redhead smiled. “I said she’s a beaut, sir.”
Roy puffed out his chest. “She is, but she’s got her mother’s genes, so how could she not?”
The other man’s face clouded for a moment. “It’s not fair what happened.”
Roy nodded and sat on the edge of Breda’s desk. “Yeah - it isn’t.”
“We miss her, Boss.”
“I know.” Roy coughed and couldn’t resist a look in the direction of his daughter. Beth squirmed a little in Fuery’s arms, but she seemed safe enough. “So, I hear the hyenas have been sniffing around.”
“Yeah, one in particular, but there are a few opportunistic bastards.” Breda rubbed the back of his neck. “Havoc says that you’re coming in again later in the week.”
Roy nodded. “I know things have been up in the air since-”
“You need to take all the time you need, Boss. We’ve got it in hand.”
“Thanks, Breda.” Roy forced a smile. “So, who keeps you all in line these days?”
The redhead threw his head back and laughed. “Impossible to believe, but Havoc has become very bossy.”
Roy snorted. “Nah - I can believe that.”
Beth whimpered, and Roy’s head snapped to her.
Fuery walked toward him. “Please take her,” he said in a shaky voice, “before she starts crying.”
Roy took her into his arms and rocked her gently. Her face contorted-he knew that look. She was hungry and was just about to start roaring. “Hey, baby girl, it’s okay.” The sound of his voice soothed her, and she nuzzled into him. He turned back to Fuery. “Relax, Fuery, she’s fine. Just get me the bag Havoc dropped.”
It was a little early for her feed, but there was no point in explaining that to an infant.
“Yoo-hoo,” Becca called.
He rolled his eyes, and Becca swept into the room, Havoc at her heels with a cup in his hands.
“Gimme that gorgeous baby.” She swooped on Beth and plucked her from his arms. “Hello, darling.”
Roy shook his head. “She needs a feed. If you’re going to kidnap her, can you please feed her?”
“I can feed her?” Her eyes widened. “Really?”
Fuery handed her the bag just as Beth’s patience wore, and she started to wail. Becca quietened her and sent Fuery to get the bottle. Roy was about to offer to take Beth back, but Rebecca shook her head.
“You promised, and you’re not breaking your word. So, Beth is mine now for a little while.”
His heart lifted a little at the scene, looking around at all the team. Beth was going to be spoiled by them all, he was sure.
Roy went over to his desk, which was clear apart from a few pieces of paperwork. There was a picture of himself and Riza staring back at him. He reached out and picked it up, brushing his finger over it.
I hate that you’re not here.
He heard footsteps behind him, and he turned.
“Coffee, sir?” Havoc pressed the cup into his hand.
Roy muttered thanks and took a sip. “So, Havoc, I hear you have been keeping everyone in check. Tell me everything that has happened since I’ve been gone.”
******
Chris found Roy dozing on the couch when she arrived home. Black Hayate was on Roy’s lap, looking as dead to the world as his master. There were papers laid out on the coffee table and tidied them up into a neat pile. Chuckling, she checked on Beth, who was cooing in the pram. She was challenging to settle for the last few days, and Roy would take her for a walk when she had trouble sleeping. She picked her up.
“Hello, little lady. I trust you had a busy day.” She carried her into the kitchen. “We’ll let your dad have a snooze. You kept him awake until all hours last night.”
Chris looked down at the tiny tot in her arms and smiled. She was growing more into a Mustang day by day. It was hard to believe she was almost four months old. Beth grabbed a fistful of her blouse. Chris rummaged through the baby bag hanging on the chair with one hand. She pulled out Beth’s favourite rattle. She waved it in front of the infant’s face. Eyes wide, Beth loosened her hold on the blouse and reached for the rattle instead. With a chuckle, Chris sat down at the table. As she played with Beth, she searched her face and wondered what Roy was like at this age. She was lucky he had been older when he had come to live with her. If Chris was honest, she might have had second thoughts about taking him in had he been a baby. As it was, she knew she couldn’t let her brother’s son end up in an orphanage. That Chris Mustang had been a very different woman. Once little Roy had come into her life, he had wholly transformed it. Being a parent was a lot harder than she had ever thought it would be, but she wouldn’t change it for the world. And now she had a grandniece, a beautiful little thing. It’s a pity her brother and sister in law never got to see Roy grow up or visit their granddaughter. It was sad, really, a tragedy that spanned two generations. At least the little mite had her father, which was more than Roy-boy had.
There was a loud thump as the rattle dropped to the floor. Beth’s brow furrowed, making her look like a little old man.
“Something bothering you, sweetheart?” Chris bent to pick up the rattle. If she didn’t like something, Elizabeth Mustang would let you know. The baby grabbed at the rattle again.
“How long are you back?”
Chris looked up at the familiar voice. Her nephew was standing in the doorway, leaning against the door-jamb. She smiled. “About five minutes, Roy. I plucked her out of the pram. She was cooing away.”
Roy stretched his arms over his head. “How about I make dinner?” He walked over to the table and grabbed a clean tea towel from the basket of clean laundry on the table. “That is if you don’t mind entertaining the little madame for a while.”
She arched an eyebrow. “As if I would mind getting a chance to spoil her.” She clucked her tongue and addressed Beth. “Daddy is an idiotic man. Us Mustang woman must stick together.”
He flicked her arm with the tea towel. “Stop trying to manipulate my daughter.” He glared at the basket. “I meant to put those away while she was sleeping, but I fell asleep instead.”
“I saw all the paperwork on the coffee table.”
Roy nodded and sighed. “Yeah, didn’t get to that either.” He pulled a chopping board from the cupboard. “It was nice getting to talk to adults.”
“What about me? Don’t I count?”
With a wicked grin on his face, he turned around. “No!”
Chris shook her head. “Beth, did you hear that? I get no respect. He forgets that I tended to his skinned knees.”
“Roughly,” he countered
“I fed him, Beth, I clothed him, and I even read him stories. There are only two kids in the world I would be willing to do that for.”
He rolled his eyes, but she caught his lip twitching. Even though he was tired, he seemed in good spirits today.
“I take it that the visit went well,” she said.
Nodding, he said, “I’ve got a lot to think about.”
Apologies for the delay in this update. I can't believe it's been so long!
Summary: Roy and Riza finally have everything they wanted, but never thought they could have. Then tragedy strikes. Roy has to learn how to muddle through when he loses Riza and is left to raise their little daughter on his own.
This chapter: Havoc and Rebecca decide to take Roy and Beth out and they’re not taking no for an answer. Meanwhile, Roy weighs up bringing Beth into the office to meet the boys.
Dedicated to @shijaeger and @tea-withjamandbread for their unwavering support and patience for this story.
Chapter Eleven or read on AO3
Chapter Twelve
Beth lay the mat in the sitting room resting on her stomach while Hayate had one eye open watching from the couch. Roy was on the floor in front of his daughter watching her reach for her rattle. He pushed it towards her and she grasped it. He had to admit having Chris move in was a great help - he was actually getting a few hours uninterrupted sleep in the morning when she took over. They had developed a schedule that worked. His aunt was still able to go and manage the bar in the afternoon and they took turns making dinner every evening. Although she drove him crazy at times, mithering at him to eat or sleep, he was very grateful for the help. Besides, Chris doted on Beth and it brought out a softer side in her that he liked to tease her about, although she often turned it back on him when he was cooing at his daughter. He would lift an eyebrow and say, “I’m allowed, I’m her father. Madame Christmas is meant to be above such things.” Then he would wink and say, “It’s okay - since I was a little boy, I always knew Chris Mustang was a teddy bear.”
He held out Bear to Beth and she smiled. He would burn the world for that smile. How did he get so lucky?
“What’s that, Bear?” He put his hand to his ear, “Oh, it’s nearly time for Beth’s bottle.”
He scooped Beth up into his arms and she grabbed his finger. He drank her in. She was so beautiful, curious and she was smarter than any other baby her age, he was sure. He took her over to the fireplace and pointed at the photo.
“That’s your Mom. She was the best and wisest person I know.”
He was determined to make sure knew about the woman that gave her life and it was getting easier to talk about her without wanting to burst into tears every time. Not that it didn’t happen every now and then. The loss of Riza was still a raw ache in his chest but she lived on in their daughter. Beth was the most important thing in his life. Still, it wasn’t the way he thought it would be. It was meant to be he and Riza raising their little girl together, sharing the broken sleep. There were times too when he missed being able to come and go as he pleased. His life was now dictated by when Beth needed to be fed, changed or needed a cuddle. Those moments were always fleeting and accompanied by a pang of almost crippling guilt. Even though he lost Riza, he would never regret Beth. His wife fought so hard to bring Beth into the world and they had waited so long for her. He just wished his wife was here to see it and to share in his joy at all of Beth’s firsts. His little girl was growing so quickly and it terrified him.
He was trying to follow the advice of the parenting books he had inhaled while Riza was pregnant. He remembered Riza teasing him about it at the time. “People raise babies all the time,” she had said. “We’ll be fine. We don’t need some book.”
“Books are knowledge,” he had shot back. “I want to give our baby the best.” The look of adoration she had given him then had led to him taking her to bed. “Your mom was the best, Beth,” he whispered, “she loved you very much.”
The doorbell rang and Hayate was up, ears cocked and ready to spring.
“See, Beth, Hayate is the best guard dog.”
He made his way into the front hall. When he opened the door, Havoc and Rebecca were standing there, smiles on their faces.
Roy arched an eyebrow. “I wasn’t expecting company.” He gestured for them to come inside. The pair walked inside and Havoc closed the door behind him.
“Obviously,” Rebecca said drily.
Roy opened his mouth to argue before he looked down at his stained shirt and wrinkled pants. A sheepish smile on his face, he shrugged his shoulders
Havoc grinned. “You better get cleaned up, sir.”
Roy lifted an eyebrow. “Why’s that then?”
Rebecca held her hands out for Beth. “Let me have a cuddle and then I tell you all about it.”
His lip twitched and he looked down at his daughter. “Hmm. What do you say, baby girl?”
“She says, yes please, I love my Auntie Becca.”
He braced himself for his little girl to protest as he passed her carefully into Rebecca’s hands. She had been a little fussy all morning. She let out a whimper that went right through him. He held out his arms to take her back but Rebecca shook her head.
“I got this.” She rocked the baby in her arms. “Beth, there’s no need to cry,” she crooned and Roy relaxed as Beth settled. She looked over at Roy, “Ha - she actually likes me.”
Roy smiled. “So, I see.”
“You’re a natural, Becca,” Havoc said, a fond smile on his face.
Lifting an eyebrow, Roy crossed his arms, “So, is someone going to tell me why I need to get changed?”
“We are taking you and your dad out, Beth.” Rebecca looked up at Roy. “Once she’s napping, we can get into the car. We’re going to drive to the park.”
Havoc clapped Roy on the back. “Becca made a wonderful picnic basket and there’s far too much for two.”
“So don’t you dare say no, Roy Mustang,” Rebecca added.
Roy grimaced. “What if she doesn’t settle?”
“We’ll take you both home,” Rebecca said. “You’ve got to get out.”
Roy narrowed his eyes. “You make it sound like I’ve turned into a hermit. I do leave the house, you know.”
Havoc rubbed the back of his neck. “What Rebecca is trying to say is-”
“Riza wouldn’t want you locking yourself up in here,” she finished.
“I’m not locked up inside all day,” Roy argued. “I go shopping and take Hayate for a walk.”
“You know what I mean.” She sighed, her expression soft. “It's tough looking after a baby especially after what happened to Riza.”
His mouth went dry and he could feel his resistance wavering. It was nice to have some adult company other than Chris.
“You need to blow off some steam and relax,” Havoc added. “Come on, Mustang. Let us do something nice for you.”
“Fine.” He kissed Beth on the temple. “I better heat her bottle. You’ve fortuitous timing. She’s due a bottle and she’ll nod off shortly after."
Rebecca was happy with herself. She caught Havoc’s eye and smirked. Roy seemed relaxed and although Beth woke up as soon as the car stopped, she settled quickly for Roy, who put her down on the blanket to kick her legs. It was amazing to see how he had settled into fatherhood. Beth was the apple of his eye. She wished Riza could be here to see it, to see them. She would have been so proud.
I’ll look after them, Riza.
Hayate was lying beside them probably thinking the exact same thing she was. Rebecca rubbed the dog’s head.
Roy jerked his head toward the dog. “He’s very good with her. I think they’re going to be best friends.” He reached over and rubbed Hayate’s belly. “Good boy.”
Smiling, Rebecca leaned back against her boyfriend’s chest and he kissed the top of her head.
“So, Boss,” Havoc said, “when are you going let us babysit properly?”
Roy turned his head and arched an eyebrow. “I would not inflict you two on my little girl.”
“Ah, come on, Boss, we’re very responsible.”
“I’m going to visit Riza’s grave next Saturday. If you really want to, I suppose you could take her for a few hours and give Chris a break.”
Rebecca sat up straight. “You won’t regret it!”
“I better not, because I will burn you both to a crisp if Beth has so much as a scratch.”
She put her hand on her chest. “We will be best babysitters you could ask for.”
“Actually, you might see us sooner, I’m thinking of coming into the office during the week to pick up some paperwork.”
Her eyes widened. It was difficult for her too seeing the office where Riza used to be. She couldn’t imagine how much worse it would be for Roy especially when he hadn’t been there in weeks.
“Boss, you have to bring Beth too,” Jean said. “Everyone wants to see her.”
“I don’t know,” Roy said. “It’s not really the place to take a baby.”
Rebecca leaned forward, “You won’t be short of volunteers to look after her.”
“I would prefer not to pass my daughter from pillar to post,” Roy said.
Rebecca blinked, a little hurt. “That’s not what I am saying! I would never say such a thing.”
He dropped his head, “Sorry, I know you don’t mean it that way.” He took a deep breath and continued, “It’s just the gossip. I know some people think I should send her away, that she needs a mother.” His voice was harsh. “I heard some people talking at the funeral. They didn’t say it to my face, of course, but I heard them.”
“Oh!” Her eyes welled up. “The bastards”
He was right, there would be talk but that would happen regardless of whether he brought Beth or not. She balled her fists. Roy was doing a good job and she heard anyone else suggest otherwise, they would have her to contend with.
“People like that are not worth thinking about, Boss. Beth seems happy to me. And I know that the boys don’t think that.”
Roy nodded. “I know.”
“And I just meant that the boys have all been wondering when they will get to meet her properly,” Rebecca added.
Havoc squeezed her hand. “They miss Riza too, Boss, and I know they can’t wait to meet Beth properly. But if you’re not ready, that’s ok. I mean going into the office is going to be hard.”
“I’ll think about it,” he said.
Rebecca pushed the plate of sandwiches towards him. “Good - why don’t you have more of this food before it goes to waste.”
Havoc pulled up the car outside the Mustang home. Chris’ car was parked in the drive. As soon as the car engine stopped, Beth let out a wail. She had been an angel for most of the trip but by the end, started to fuss.
He held her closer and kissed the crown of her head. “Sorry, baby girl, Daddy lost track of time.”
He had stayed out a little longer than he should. The car journey had calmed her down. Havoc got out of the driver’s seat and opened the back door.
Roy got out of the car, Hayate at his heels. “Thanks.”
“Well, your hands are kinda full, Boss.”
Roy rocked Beth against his shoulder. “It’s ok, sweetheart.” He jerked his head towards the door. “Why don’t you come inside? I just need to get this little one fed and put her down to sleep. I’m sure Chris would like to see you two.”
Havoc looked at Rebecca and she shrugged. “Alright, we won’t stay long though.”
Almost as if he conjured her up, his aunt opened the front door. “What are you all doing standing there? Come on in.”
Chris patted Roy’s arm as he passed. “I’ll make her a bottle.”
He smiled at her. “Thanks, I’m going to take her upstairs to change her first. If you could bring it up and I’d feed her upstairs.”
She nodded and Roy went up the stairs. He lay Beth down on the changing table and she whimpered.
“Beth, baby, I have to let you down to change you. I can’t hold you at the same time.”
She continued to cry until he had put a new nappy on her and was holding her again.
“Hush, sweetheart.”
Chris appeared with the bottle. “How was the park?”
“I suppose it was nice to get away.” Roy sat in the rocking chair and put the bottle to Beth’s lips. She opened her mouth and started to suck. She stared up at him. “Poor thing, she’s thirsty.” He glanced at Chris. “Hayate enjoyed a good game of fetch.”
“Not the little one’s not only one worn out, so?”
Roy’s lip twitched as Beth’s eyelids began to droop. “Hey, no falling asleep until I wind you.” He gently took the bottle out with a pop and moved her to his shoulder. He rubbed her back gently supporting her bottom all the while with his other arm. “Good girl.”
He met Chris’ eyes. She leaned against the doorway, a smile on her face.
“Havoc and Rebecca suggested that I take Beth to the office to meet the boys.”
Chris lifted an eyebrow, then nodded. “That’s a great idea. I’m sure they would want a chance to dote on her.”
He shrugged. “I might take her for a quick visit,” Roy said. “Go on, I’ll be down soon.”
She nodded and left him to it.
Once Beth was fast asleep in her cot, Roy came downstairs. He had enjoyed the day despite his initial apprehension. When he entered the kitchen, Rebecca and Havoc were already standing.
“Heading so quickly?”
“Jean is taking me out to dinner.” Rebecca kissed Havoc’s cheek. “I have to get home to make myself beautiful.”
“You’re already beautiful,” Havoc said.
“Even more beautiful, then,” she said.
Roy rolled his eyes and caught Chris’ grin.
“Hey, lovebirds.” He looked from one to the other. “Thank you both for today.”
Rebecca smiled. “You’re very welcome.”
Roy cleared his throat. “I’ve been thinking about what you said, about bringing Beth into the office. I thought maybe I might drop by some day, just a short visit. It wouldn’t be right to bring her in when I come in to catch up on work.”
Her face lit up. “The boys are going to be ecstatic.”
Roy shook his head. “Just do something for me, right? Keep it on the down-low and let me surprise them. I don’t want word getting around.”
Rebecca looked like she was going to argue for a moment but Havoc spoke first. “Of course, Boss. Their faces are going to be priceless.”
“Alright, I won’t tell them either.”
“Good. I don’t know when I will be able for it.”
Roy’s stomach turned at the thought of going into the office and not seeing Riza there. So far, he had managed to get others to fetch anything he needed but the time had come to face it.
“Roy?” Rebecca’s voice brought him out of his reverie and he turned to her. “I hope you know that Riza would be proud of you. Take no notice of anyone that says otherwise.” Her face went a little red and she gave him a quick hug. As she pulled away, she whispered, “She loved you so much.”
He swallowed the lump in his throat. Rebecca had been a great friend to Riza and now she was extending that friendship to him. “I think that she would be amused that the two of us are getting on.”
“Mostly anyway,” Rebecca added.
The pair laughed while Chris and Havoc watched in amusement.
Dedicated to @tea-withjamandbread. Thank you for friendship, dear. Happy holidays!
Summary: Three generations of Mustangs celebrate the holidays. Beth is dying to exchange gifts, Roy is teaching her patience while Chris muses on how she became a grandma. From my Without Her verse. (You don't need to have read it, all you need to know Riza died when Beth was born.)
The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year
Roy Mustang knew his daughter had him wrapped around her little finger. The problem was she knew it too. Beth stuck out her lower lip in an adorable pout and looked up at her father, eyes wide and pleading.
“Dad, can I give Grandma her present now?”
Roy abandoned cutting the onions and ruffled his daughter’s hair. “No, baby girl, you’ve got to wait until after dinner as I told you earlier. It won’t be much longer.”
“But, Daddy, my tummy is funny.” She rubbed her belly. “You said that being nervous makes your tummy rumble.”
His lip twitched. She really was something else.
He bent down to eye level. “Hmm. Are you saying you’ll eat better if you give her the present first?”
Beth nodded solemnly. “Yes, Daddy.”
He threw his head back and laughed. “Nice try, sweetheart, you have to be patient.”
Her face fell and she pouted again. “Please, Daddy.”
“No, sweetheart, I know you’re excited but waiting for a little longer isn’t going to kill you.”
She crossed her arms. “Maybe it will.”
“Hush, you drama queen,” he said.
“You’re one to talk, Roy Mustang,” a voice said from behind them.
Roy’s head whipped to the door. Chris had just walked into the kitchen, a small smirk on her face.
He shook his head. “Thanks for your support.”
Chris walked over to where Roy was standing by the worktop. “Can I help you with dinner?”
“No need.” Roy shook his head. “I’m almost done.”
He turned back to finish cutting the onions when he heard a small voice say, “Grandma, can I give you the present now?”
His eyes narrowed.
“No, Beth, you must wait until after dinner,” Chris chimed in before he could say a word.
He sent his aunt a grateful look.
She leaned and whispered, “It’s the prerogative of being a grandmother, seeing your kids struggle with their own. I have to admit it gives me a little satisfaction because frankly, Roy-boy, you were hard work for me.”
“I think I turned out okay in the end,” he retorted. He turned to his daughter. “Beth, why don’t you get Grandma the lovely card you made. The present will have to wait until the three of us are exchanging presents.”
Beth’s face lit up. As always, it reminded him just how lucky he was to have her no matter how much hard work she could be.
Dinner passed by quickly especially with Beth shovelling food into her mouth. Her enthusiasm was contagious. Still, he deliberately took his time with the meal. His daughter had to learn patience after all. He bit back a smile as Beth fidgeted with her fork and ignored her pointed looks. After a particularly long sigh, he decided to let her out of her misery.
“I think it’s time to exchange gifts, don’t you?”
He didn’t have to say it twice as Beth bolted out of the room. Chris got up too but only went as far as her handbag which she had left on a chair.
Beth rushed back in and almost skidded into Chris, who caught her by the arm.
“Whoa, sweetheart, take it easy.”
Roy stood up. “Let’s leave the washing up for now and go into the living room.”
Hayate was sprawled in front of the fire when they went inside. He lifted his head but lay back down again. The three Mustangs sat on the couch, Beth in the middle. The girl was practically vibrating with energy. She was holding two crudely wrapped presents, one Roy had supervised her wrapping and the other he guessed was his present.
Roy put his hand on her shoulder. “Why don’t you go first, baby girl?”
She beamed and handed Chris one of the presents. “This is from me and Dad.”
Chris grinned and tore open the wrapping. Inside there was a small jewellery box. Chris looked up at Roy questioningly. He just inclined his head. She opened it to reveal silver brooch with a pearl.
She hugged Beth. “It’s beautiful, sweetheart.”
“I helped Dad pick it out,” Beth said proudly.
Chris pulled away from Beth and looked at Roy. “Thank you, both. I love it.”
“I think she has a good eye.”
Beth pressed the other parcel into his hands. “Dad, it's your turn.” She clapped her hands. “Open it!”
Inside, there was a red tie.
“Aunt Becca said you need more colour in your clothes.”
“Did she now?”
He pulled her onto his lap and kissed her forehead. “I really love it, baby girl.”
“I am the best shopper.”
Roy let out a warm chuckle. “That you are, I think Aunt Becca might be a bad influence on you.”
Beth turned her head to look at him and waggled her eyebrows, “She said you would say that.”
He noticed Chris reach into her handbag.
“I think Grandma’s got something for you,” he said.
Beth turned her head immediately.
His aunt took out a small box and put it in Beth’s hands. “Well now, Beth, it’s time for your gift from me.”
Roy’s eyes narrowed. The gift was shaped suspiciously similar to Chris’ own present. He hoped his aunt had not gotten her something too expensive. Beth stuck out her tongue in concentration as she opened the wrapping to reveal a small jewellery box. She shifted on Roy’s lap and opened the box. She squealed in delight at the small silver necklace with a heart-shaped locket.
Roy lifted an eyebrow. “It’s a locket, Beth.” He turned to Chris. “Is there-”
Chris nodded and he carefully lifted the locket and put it into Beth’s hands.
“Let’s see what’s inside,” he said.
He looked for the clasp to open it and showed Beth where it was. After a few tries, she managed to click it open.
This time it was Roy’s turn to gasp when he saw the two pictures inside.
“That’s my mom,” Beth said, awe in her voice, “and me and Daddy.”
“Yeah,” Chris said, “I thought you would like it.”
“That was very thoughtful.” Roy’s voice was hoarse.
“Don’t worry, Roy, it wasn’t expensive. The value is purely in the sentiment.”
“It’s a heart,” the girl babbled.
“And now, you can carry your Mom close to your heart.”
“And in my heart.” Beth giggled and pulled up her hair. “Put it on, please.”
She was learning too many habits from Rebecca. He might need to watch that.
Roy tied it around her neck and she let her hair fall.
She launched herself at Chris. “This is the best present.”
Roy stuck out his lower lip in an exaggerated pout. “Then I guess you don’t want my present.”
Beth’s mouth fell open and she shook her head. “No! But I do, Daddy.”
He smirked and pulled out a parcel from behind the couch. He watched as she tore through the wrapping and shrieked.
“It’s that teddy.”
“Yes, it is that teddy. In fact, it’s that same one we saw in the shop window.”
She hugged the teddy to her chest.
“I have the best presents this year!” She jumped up. “C’mon Hayate, I want to see what I look like.”
Hayate jumped up obediently. The dog was another one that Beth had wrapped around her finger.
“And my new teddy wants to see my room.”
Chris and Roy watched in amusement as the girl skipped out of the room, Hayate at her heels.
“You know I still find it strange being called Grandma considering I was never called Mama or Mom.”
“You know you’re a mother to me.” He met her eyes, “Would you have preferred that I did call you that as a boy?”
She tutted. “Roy boy, I probably would have had a heart attack.”
“Are you sure?” There was a twinkle in his eyes. “I could start calling you Mom now.”
She punched him in the arm. “Quit your cheek.” Her face sobered, “I guess it just didn’t seem right for you to call me anything other than Auntie Chris and you never tried to call me anything different. It suited us, you know regardless of what convention would dictate.”
“You know that’s why I love you, Chris. You’re unashamedly yourself.”
“I could say the same about you.”
“I wonder where I learned it from.”
“Be careful, Roy-boy, you’re getting sentimental.” She reached into her handbag and pulled out a bottle of brandy. “Your present. At least then you’ll have an excuse for being a sentimental fool.”
Here is a belated birthday present for @tea-withjamandbread who wanted some Beth Mustang, my Royai kid OC from my Without Her universe.
Summary: It’s Beth’s first day in school and both Roy and Beth are feeling nervous.
Warning for fluff!
First Day
“Beth, you up yet?” Roy peered in the door of his daughter’s room. “C’mon, it's your first day.”
He stopped in the doorway and he frowned. Still in her pyjamas, she was sitting on the edge of the bed. He stepped into the room.
“Hey, baby girl,” he said gently. “Why aren't you getting ready, sweetheart?”
“Daddy, do I have to?” She looked up at him. “What if I don’t make any friends? What if- what if they all hate me?”
He crossed the room and sat down on the bed beside her. “Of course, you will.” He brushed her hair from her face. “You’re Beth Mustang, they would be lucky to have you as a best friend.”
She grinned. “You’re silly.”
“Ah, well, that’s where you learned it from.” He poked her in the chest. “Let’s get breakfast first, huh? Just this once, mind you.”
She wrapped her arms around his neck, climbed onto his lap and buried her face in his chest.
He ruffled her hair. “It's alright to be nervous.”
“Yeah?” Her voice was muffled from his shirt.
“Let me tell you a secret, I was so scared, I got sick on your Grandma’s shoes.”
She shifted in his arms and pulled back a little to look up at him. Her brows were furrowed and he tried not to laugh at how adorably confused she looked.
“No, you didn't.”
“Yes, I did. Ask Grandma about it sometime.”
Beth scrunched up her nose. “Ugh, poor Grandma.”
“Poor Grandma?” Biting back a smile, he asked. “What about your poor Dad?”
“You’re disgusting.”
“I couldn't help it.”
She snuggled into him again. She had been extra clingy over the weekend. His little girl was growing up and he wondered how much longer she would cuddle up with him like this. It seemed like only yesterday she was a baby and now she was starting school. He knew Riza would be so proud of her if she was here. Their brave, kind and loving little girl.
“Carry me, Daddy.”
Beth's words pulled him from his thoughts. Lifting an eyebrow, he scooped her up and carried her into the kitchen.
Her eyes lit up when she saw the table. “Pancakes!”
“Well, it’s your first day at big school.” Smiling, he dropped her into a chair. “Of course, I’m going to give you your favourite.”
“You're the best.”
“I know.” He sat at the other side of the table and poured coffee from the cafetière. He smiled at the Best Dad in the World emblazoned on the mug. “That's why I got this cool mug.”
Beth out down her glass of juice. “Grandma said that mug would give you a big head.”
“Well, she was right.”
He got an eye roll in return.
A small smile on his face, he watched her devour the pancakes. He did a lot wrong in his life. He wondered what he had done to deserve the beautiful little girl in his life.
“Are you not eating, Daddy?”
“Well, I’m going over to your Grandma’s for breakfast after we drop you. I’m going to be working from home today so I can collect you after.”
When she smiled up at him, he felt warm inside. He was the luckiest man in the world.
Fifteen minutes later, Beth was proudly dressed in her uniform, a pleated skirt and blazer. Roy couldn't resist taking a few photographs. He ignored the smug voice in his head that sounded suspiciously like Hughes.
The doorbell rang and Beth squealed, “It’s Grandma!”
She ran to the door, Roy right behind. When she flung open the door, she jumped into Chris’ arms. With the reflexes of a much younger woman, Chris caught her.
“Well, well, look at you.”
“Grandma, do you like my uniform?”
Chris dropped her on the ground and came inside. “You look very grown up, sweetheart.” She caught Roy’s eyes. “How's Dad doing?”
“Dad was taking loads of pictures.”
The older woman arched an eyebrow.
Roy flushed. “Don’t you start.” He turned to his daughter. “Beth, why don't you get your school bag? We should get going.”
Beth practically bounced as she ran from the room.
“So, you got the camera out, huh?”
“Alright, you got me, but I think I have an excuse, it's a big day after all.”
“How is she? Is she nervous?”
“Yeah.” He sighed, “I suppose I am too. I hope she won’t have any brats in her class.”
“Roy, if you’re thinking about threatening little children, I would strongly advise against it.”
Roy chuckled, “Yeah, I guess intimidation might not be the best tactic.”
She squeezed his shoulder. “It’s scary letting them go but you’ve gotta let them spread their wings.”
Roy’s stomach was a ball of nerves by the time they got to the school. Beth held his hand tighter as they walked through the classroom door. A smiling woman that Roy recognised as the class teacher walked over towards them.
“Hi, Mister Mustang.”
Roy inclined his head. “Hello, Miss Bloom.”
She bent down and looked Beth in the eye. “Hi, Beth. You remember me, right?”
The little girl nodded.
“Good.” She held out her hand. “C’mon, why don’t you come to meet your classmates?”
The girl looked up at Roy and he nodded. “Go on, baby girl. I’ll be back later and you can tell me what a great day you had.”
She hugged him around the waist. “Love you, Daddy.”
Roy cleared his throat and she took the teacher’s hand. He felt a sense of loss as she walked away. Beth sat next to two other girls, one of whom gave her a hug. He let out a breath he didn't know he had been holding. She was going to be fine. He turned around and paused at the door to wave at her, but his baby girl didn't even notice. He shook his head and went outside where Chris was waiting, her arms crossed.
“All good? No tears from either of you?”
“She didn't even see me leave,” he groused.
“Get used to it, Roy-boy, it’s only going to get worse.”
“Thanks for your words of comfort.”
She patted his arm. “I have a handkerchief in the car if you need it.”
