Same Job, Different Time and Place [R-18] - Part 2

With one final nod, Arthur followed Alfred out of the office and breathed a sigh of relief as the door clicked shut behind them. He ran his fingers back through his hair, walking down the corridor. There were various people staring; gossip spread fast, it seemed. He glowered at them and headed straight to his office, expecting Alfred to follow.

“Thank fuck for that,” he mumbled, sounding a little irritated. He loosened his tie and sat down at his desk. “The only problem is…” how were they going to keep their hands off of each other? They couldn’t even really kiss on the premises anymore. He’d have to find that camera.

Why were they watching him anyway? What the hell was so interesting that could possibly be going on in his office – other than them sucking each other off once, of course? Nothing, was the answer. The majority of the day was Arthur speaking on the phone, writing notes and typing on the computer which continued to play up when he decided that he needed to use it.

Alfred was extremely glad to get out of the office and instead of glowering at the other people who were staring at them, he instead gave them a bright smile as if nothing really happened inside the office. Despite some of the yelling from all three of them. He could pretend that it never happened (except that he would have to be more careful about what he did with Arthur).

Stepping inside, he closed the office door and soon stood by Arthur's desk, humming a bit as he looked over at his boss with a small, hesitant smile. "Well...it could have been a lot worse." He admitted and he was afraid that it was. The fact that they managed to get away with this was amazing.

Though he still didn't know what to do about keeping his hands off of Arthur. It was hard to have such a long working day without being able to do anything with him. Soon he glanced around for the camera though it was a bit harder for him to find than with just a small glance. He would have to definitely look around for it later on.

“That’s true,” Arthur agreed, somewhat reluctant. Although things could have gone catastrophically, they were still being asked to do something very difficult (or what Arthur was going to find difficult, anyway). He was always looking at Alfred’s arse, or even touching it when he felt that he could. Just because Ludwig clearly didn’t have much of a sex life shouldn’t mean that Alfred and Arthur weren’t allowed to have one. He frowned a little at the thought.

They would have to start being imaginative about where they could ravish (or at least kiss) each other at work, somewhere where there weren’t any cameras. But where…?

He perched on the edge of his desk.

“You were good,” Arthur praised before hastily adding: “talking to Ludwig, I mean.” He scratched the back of his neck. “You handled it better than I did.”

Alfred really, really wished that he didn't say anything so they wouldn't really be restricted on what they could do at the workplace. Of course they were free to do whatever during the weekend but it was just so hard, especially when they were always near each other. Not only this but Alfred was a very touchy person and even if he wasn't groping Arthur, he was always doing things like touching him or grabbing his hand or pecking his lips or anything like that. He just wished that Ludwig wasn't such an prude.

He wondered if Arthur would be able to figure out just where they could possibly have some alone time. Though most of the options that he was coming up with in his mind was rather unpleasant though in the end, it probably wouldn't really matter.

He was a bit surprised with the sudden praise and he reddened at that before smiling a bit. "...Thanks...you handled it really well...but Ludwig just has a huge stick up his ass." He laughed.

“Nah, not really. I lost my head but you didn’t… well done, lad.” Arthur gave a fleeting smile and then cleared his throat as he glanced about the room to see if he could see the camera anywhere (which he couldn’t). Where was the bloody thing? “Although, you’re right. Ludwig does have a particularly large tree up his backside. I bet he likes it, too,” he said with a roll of his eyes.

He got up and went around to the other side of his desk, looking through his remaining paperwork for the day. He couldn’t really see anything that he could set Alfred to do other than menial tasks.

“At least you’ll be able to come to Sydney with me now, eh?”

Alfred just gave a hesitant smile to the other and nodded, soon grabbing some of the paperwork he needed to make copies of for his boss (before they were called into the office). "Thank you then, sir." He said, smiling just a bit more at that as his cheeks flushed a bit. It wasn't often that he was complimented so it was definitely something that he could enjoy. With another glance around the room to find the camera (and failing yet once again), he settled his gaze back on his lover and instead barked out a laugh.

"How lude. Hopefully he doesn't look at the video and read our lips or something." He joked.

With an raise of his eyebrows, he couldn't help but be a bit pleased with the thought. Australia...he could only imagine just how great that place was.

"Yeah. Maybe we can hop to the beach or something while we're there."

Arthur chuckled, “Yes, let’s hope so.”

He seriously doubted that Ludwig would be checking the tapes again, but he was expecting more frequent visits from the man, just so hat the German git could keep tabs on them. He wasn’t really looking forward to being continually interrupted by Ludwig whilst he was working. He was pretty sure that it was going to get irritating.

He raised an eyebrow at Alfred’s chose of words and smirked.

“Yes, well, you can do that, by all means. However, I was planning on doing something much more normal such as walking to the beach, darling.”

Alfred really, really hoped that there wouldn't be someone sent to keep an eye out on them or that Ludwig would check on them himself. That would be more than unpleasant. He didn't want his every move to be tracked by him! That was just beyond creepy if all else! Certainly they had an relationship behind closed doors but that didn't mean that they were completely irresponsible and the like.

Yet soon the younger assistant reddened in embarrassment and he huffed slightly, flicking his nose lightly.

"How mean! You know exactly what I mean!" He couldn't help but smirk a bit at Arthur despite his embarrassment. "Though there's definitely more we can do at the beach than just walk there." He couldn't help but imply, chuckling as he shuffled through the papers in his hands.

It was incredibly degrading that Ludwig had seen them pleasuring each other. He couldn’t help but wonder how the man had reacted though. He hoped that he hadn’t watched all of it. What a pervert.

Arthur flinched as his nose was flicked and made a face at Alfred.

“Hmmm, perhaps,” he mused and then laughed slightly. “Oh Jones, such thoughts even in a work environment? You do impress me sometimes,” he winked and adjusted the lapels of his own suit. “You should get back to work though, I’m afraid. Ludwig might become suspicious if you stay in here for too long. We can talk about this when we get home, okay?”

He almost reached out to give Alfred a pat on the bum but thought better of it, moving to turn his computer back on again.

Alfred really did feel uncomfortable with doing anything as risky as what they did about three weeks ago. Especially now that he was aware of the presence of cameras. Fuck! That was embarrassing! Did any of the security guards who watched the tapes actually see them when they did that or was that just a moment missed? What about their small kisses or gropes or anything like that? Did anyone else see that?

If they did...then that was horribly, horribly embarrassing. It was bad enough that Ludwig had seen it already. He just hoped that he hadn't watched everything or else Alfred wouldn't know how to act around him.

Instead he laughed, winking back at Arthur. "I'm here to impress, sir." He responded easily back before nodding. "Alright, once we get back home." He promised and admittedly, he was somewhat expecting a pat on the bum but found himself disappointed when he felt nothing. With that, he headed to the copy machine room to run some copies for his boss.

Arthur wasn’t completely deterred by the cameras, at least. He still stared at Alfred’s backside as he left before turning back to his computer to finish composing his emails.


It was a few weeks later when the pair were expected to board a plane to Sydney. Arthur had been tense over the past few days about it, getting more and more nervous. This was their shot at proving that they could keep work and their personal lives separate. He was also worried about how the Australians were going to react to Alfred. Would they be able to tell Alfred was the ‘girlfriend’ that he’d been on the phone to? How would they react? Would they not want to speak to him anymore?

Oh the trials that they would face; let alone being unable to touch each other.

Arthur and Alfred had been queuing in the terminal for some fifty minutes and Arthur had been beginning to get irritated when finally, they were let on the plane. He took his seat, leaving the one beside the window free for Alfred. He got the feeling that Alfred would appreciate it more than he could, despite their long flight ahead of them. There hadn’t seemed to many kids about this time, not any that looked like they’d run into business class, anyway.

Arthur settled comfortably in his seat and closed his eyes, just resting them for a few moments. They had a long flight(s) ahead of them.

Alfred really was looking forward to the trip despite the fact that they would have to keep their personal and business life separate. It didn't mean that they were restricted from each other during the weekends though...right? Or at least after the working day? They still had time with each other during then, right? Of course they should! That was not working hours so it was none of Ludwig's business what they did afterwards. He would be rather disappointed though if he wouldn't be allowed to attend lunch with Arthur though he had a feeling that he would do so anyways. After all, he was his assistant and they were both from New York, so it wouldn't be all that weird to eat with each other.

The only thing that he wasn't looking forward to was the plane ride. Well, that was until he heard that they were going on business class. Of course they were going on business class but he had never been in front of the plane! This was going to be absolutely amazing! Away from the kids and all the like and it seemed as if Arthur was going to give him the window seat also!

This trip was going to be amazing. Though he would still be sitting right next to Arthur the whole time...would it be bad at least trying to cuddle up with him or something?

"You know, the city is absolutely gorgeous up in the air. I love planes. I wanted to become an pilot when I was a kid for like, the longest time." He said as he pressed himself against the window, eyes darting every which way. He knew that Arthur would be extremely tired so he didn't want to tire him out too much.

Fuck, business class was so cool!

It didn't take long for the plane to start moving and soon taking off, all the meanwhile Alfred kept his face pressed against the window as he looked at the spectacular view of New York City during the night. It was absolutely gorgeous with all the lights...one of the most beautiful cities at night.

"Arthur! Arthur! Look!"

He definitely was like an fascinated child half of the time.

Arthur could just feel how excited Alfred was, and it made him smile. The boy was so excitable, even at his age. Although, a part of Arthur doubted that Alfred would ever grow up. Which was what would one day make him such a good dad. He chuckled a little, cracking an eye open to look across at him.

“I know, I know…” he murmured, musing at how Alfred had pressed him into the window pane. He was such a child and it was so endearing. “I thought that you wanted to be an astronaut, Alfred?” he asked, eyes closing again.

New York was incredibly beautiful by night, but Arthur had already seen it twice from above now. He wasn’t all that interested for a third time. He took a few deep breaths, just trying to relax. He was looking forward to being able to sleep although he doubted that Alfred would let him, seeing as the American was prone to babbling. He didn’t mind though.

Alfred just continued on grinning as he looked out of the window to gaze upon the beautiful city. It really was spectacular though he supposed that Arthur might not really have an huge interest in it now considering that he had seen it multiple times now but still, Alfred found it gorgeous. He loved being up high. It was just one of his loves and he just wished that he could have become a pilot if becoming an astronaut didn't really work out. Well of course it was a bit late now since he was just an simple assistant now.

To think...what would his life have been like if he was an pilot or an astronaut. Would he have been able to see the world below him like he was now? It was gorgeous.

Soon he pulled away from the window, smiling over at Arthur. He really didn't have any plans to become a father at the moment. Not when he was financially like this and his heart was for Arthur. Maybe...well...he was thinking ahead too far.

Glancing over at Arthur, he looked around at the other passengers in the business class. They didn't seem like they were looking, either too invested in the television in front of them or just sleeping. So quietly, Alfred pulled the blanket over him (which was thicker than what they gave in economy class) before leaning over so he could lean his head against Arthur's shoulder. He really couldn't help himself...especially when Ludwig wasn't looking or here in any way shape or form.

Arthur didn’t get a reply, despite what he’d expected. Alfred seemed to be rather quiet although he was shuffling around a lot for some God forsaken reason. Wriggling like a toddler. He sighed softly and pointedly ignored him until he felt pressure on his shoulder. He opened his eyes and looked down curiously.

Alfred was leaning against him?

He felt as though he should be embarrassed, or outraged that Alfred would do something like that in a public place. He glanced across at the rest of the plane, checking that none of the other employees they were travelling with were close by. Satisfied, he tilted his head down and pressed a quick kiss to Alfred’s golden locks.

He reached down and took Alfred’s closest hand in his own.

Alfred was rather pleased that Arthur didn't seem to push him away and instead he smiled at the other's actions, humming in contentment as a quick kiss was pressed to his golden locks. He was glad that some of the other employees that were travelling with them weren't close by or at least could see them. Soon he looked up at Arthur and smiled to himself, leaning up to press a light kiss to his jaw before pulling away and leaning back against his shoulder.

He soon grabbed Arthur's hand as well and squeezed lightly before letting it relax. He wouldn't mind sleeping like this instead...it would definitely make the trip bearable.

"Mm...I wanted to be an astronaut also. But I guess I wanted to be like my dad. I love planes also just as much as I love space. He used to take me out flying with his plane." He mumbled, closing his eyes happily.

“Is that even legal?” Arthur had the undertone of laughter in his voice. He rubbed his thumb across the back of Alfred’s hand, enjoying the closeness between them. He watched Alfred silently for a few moments before settling his head atop of Alfred’s.

“Remember to pace out your naps, love. We’ve got a long journey; it’s daytime in Sydney right now,” he nuzzled against Alfred a little before thinking better of it, stopping all together. “Hang on a second, I’m getting my book,” he warned, moving Alfred slightly as he shifted about, searching for The Great Gatsby (which he was re-reading).

He opened it and found his page before returning to his previous position, allowing for Alfred to lean on him, their arms linked instead of holding hands so that he could read his book a bit easier.

“Sorry,” he apologised, now comfortable again. “Shall I wake you up in a bit?” he asked, voice soft.

Alfred chuckled softly at that, enjoying the touch on his hand and just how close they were. "Mm, of course it's legal." He mumbled with an small smile before soon yawning and moving off of Arthur just for a few moments so the other could retrieve his book. He caught sight of the title, The Great Gatsby it seemed, and grinned a bit at the sight of it though he was too tired to comment on it. He had read the book in high school for class and it was actually pretty damned good.

Though it has been an long time since he last read it.

"Hn...can't I just sleep through the whole trip?" He questioned with an amused smile, rubbing his eyes a bit before settling back against Arthur with an small nod.

"Yeah...wake me up whenever." He mumbled though he was starting to fall asleep quickly. He was just so comfortable against his boss...it felt really, really nice, just to relax like this even in the public.

“Good night, my lovely,” Arthur whispered to him, smiling affectionately at him. He soon turned back to his book, however as he realised that someone might see. He started to read the book and become immersed in the world of fine literature.

The flight was long, as always. Arthur woke up Alfred a few times and he slept, himself. Twenty four hours. It was enough to make someone hate travelling. When they changed flights, it had been hard for Arthur not to want to hold Alfred’s hand. But they couldn’t. Not with the fact that all of the other employees were around them and when they finally reached Sydney, there was a car waiting to take all of them to their hotel. Hopefully, they wouldn’t all end up on the same floor. That would make it impossible for Arthur and Alfred to spend any time together at all.

The hotel was pretty grand, as it had been last time. Chouchoute provided for their workers, as per usual. It was lovely. Arthur’s room was pretty basic, though. A bedroom and a bathroom with a huge television, a desk and a balcony (ignoring the basic furniture, of course); his balcony overlooked the street again, much to his joy.

He set his bags down and stretched, feeling exhausted from the long flight. It was early morning in Sydney and all Arthur wanted to do was sleep. But he’d promised that he would go and visit him. So, Arthur did exactly that.

He rapped his knuckles on Alfred’s door (hoping that it actually was Alfred’s door and the berk hadn’t told him the wrong number) and waited patiently.

Alfred was extremely exhausted by the end of the trip and all he wanted to do was curl up in the car and pretty much sleep in there forever. It didn't feel as good as the business class seats but what he wanted the most was actually the wonderful bed. Yet despite everything, he knew that he wouldn't be sharing the same bedroom as Arthur. Not when their rooms were separate. It was actually an huge disappointment for him considering everything...

Who could actually keep them apart during the night time? That was just mean! Luckily enough though, they were on the same floor though hopefully some of their other coworkers weren't on this floor.

He had been resting on the bed, having knocked out right as he hit the bed and he was sleepy enough to actually let out soft snores. That was until he heard the knock on his door and he soon stood up, rubbing his eyes as he went over to the door and opened it for Arthur.

"Mm...hey." He mumbled, stepping to the side so he could let Arthur inside. It was nice to at least finally be in some sort of privacy away from their coworkers. It would probably be the only place that they could get any sort of privacy in the next few weeks.

“Hello,” Arthur greeted, pecking Alfred’s lips quickly before he walked in past him. He felt equally as groggy and a little irritable, but Alfred’s presence was calming amongst the heat (although it was colder than it had been the last time that Arthur had been there) and the annoying cricket jokes he got all the time.

He toed off his shoes at the foot of Alfred’s bed and without permission, lay back, sprawling on the soft surface. Alfred’s room appeared to be the same sort of layout as his own. They were only a couple of doors away from each other, as well – which was a plus. He hadn’t been surprised that they were allocated separate rooms.

Arthur could imagine Ludwig making him and Feliciano have separate bedrooms when they visited Paris fashion week. Ludwig was just that sort of guy… it was a little strange, in Arthur’s opinion.

“My back is killing me,” he grimaced.

Alfred laughed a bit at that, pecking Arthur's lips back before closing the door behind him, making certain to lock it. He knew that there weren't any cameras in the room (considering it would probably be extremely illegal if that was the case) so he really didn't feel as if he had to worry too much. As long as they kept their voices hushed, then he wouldn't have to worry about being caught by other people with Arthur inside. Admittedly, he was definitely enjoying the heat since he barely could ever stand the cold. He hated the cold so much.

He couldn't help but grin when he saw Arthur lay back and sprawl out on the bed. Humming a bit to himself, he climbed back on the bed as well, laying down right next to his boss as he just watched him lovingly.

"Mm, what? Do you need an back rub or something?" He asked though he yawned softly. They were very lucky that they were only a few rooms apart. He wondered what Ludwig did with Feliciano during times like this. Did he stay in an separate room from Feliciano also? In a way, he hoped he did...or else that would seem extremely hypocritical.

Arthur hummed softly, “As much as I like the sound of that, it isn’t exactly very nice to you, is it?” he looked across at his lover and smirked a little, despite the tired look in his eyes. Honestly, the main reason he had turned it down was because he knew that he was likely to get turned on and to want to jump Alfred – and he felt too tired to even attempt it, no matter how lovely it sounded.

“You’re tired,” he stated, rolling on to his front so that he could stroke his fingers through Alfred’s hair. “Did I wake you?” he leaned down, pecking Alfred’s forehead sweetly.

Alfred just laughed a bit at that before nodding, deciding to just enjoy the fingers stroking through his hair as he looked up at Arthur. He simply smiled and closed his eyes for a moment before taking in a soft breath.

"Yeah, but I don't mind. I was the one who asked you to come in here." He mumbled and honestly, he really didn't want him to go back to his room. Not when he was so tired and all he wanted to do was just cuddle with Arthur.

He really didn't mind the other turning down the back rub and while he would have gladly given it to him, he was also rather tired. He wasn't sure if he could give him an nice back rub or not when he was this tired and he might end up falling asleep on top of him.

All he really wanted to do was cuddle and fall asleep.

Arthur rolled his eyes a little but didn’t stop smiling. He just continued to gently peck at Alfred, being as affectionate as he could whilst so tired. Despite not really wanting to move, he knew that they wouldn’t be ale to sleep or else their sleeping pattern would be totally out of sync with the time zone. It was irritating in itself, actually.

“You need to wake up, sweetheart. If you sleep now, you won’t want to get up tomorrow for work.” Just by looking at Alfred and seeing the light dark circles under his eyes, it was obvious that Arthur wasn’t quite as tired as he was. Letting out a soft sigh, he knew that he should probably just let the American nap.

“How about I wake you up in an hour’s time? Will that make you feel better?”