Same Job, Different Time and Place [R-18] - Part 3

Arthur headed into the bedroom, ignorant of Alfred’s gaze. He dressed himself in a sensible shirt and jeans. His usual get-up. He rolled up the sleeves so that they came to halfway down his arms, just to try and prevent himself from getting too hot. He came back into the living room, his hair still dripping a bit as he sat beside Alfred again, watching him play silently.

“What should I expect from my first Independence day?” he asked quiet, tentatively.

Alfred looked over at Arthur curiously and he soon laid down on the couch, resting his head on his lap as he somewhat focused on his game and the other half of his attention went to the other man. He pressed a brief kiss to his cheek before thinking.

"Hmm, first off, we call it the 4th of July over here," He said with a small grin. "Independence day seems a bit too old fashioned."

He paused and thought. "Lots of American flags I suppose. But you've been seeing those everywhere already. Near evening, you get more fireworks, a lot of people might be doing barbecues over around the parks. Lots of food being sold, window shopping of course, contests, a parade probably..." He thought about it. "We still need to figure out where to watch the fireworks. I heard that the Hudson Terrace was nice but I could never really pay for that," He admitted, scratching his cheek lightly. "Usually though there are specials in restaurants just for today!"

He laughed a bit. "You don't have to worry too much about it. Trust me. I think you'll like the picnic at Central Park the most."

Arthur was a little surprised as he found Alfred’s head in his lap but didn’t complain. He just stroked Alfred’s hair tenderly, watching him. He frowned a little at the idea of it being old fashioned. It was what they said all the time at home. The date itself was just a date, to Arthur at least.

“Well, pardon me for being English.”

He de-bristled and leaned back into the sofa. He watched the screen for a few moments, thinking deeply about what Alfred was saying as though he was considering all of the things he’d have to mentally prepare for.

“Right, well, it is your birthday, Alfred. I could pay for us to go to the Terrace thing?” he offered. “You’re only twenty four once, you know.” He nodded in agreement about the picnic; he was pretty certain that yes, it would be his favourite part of the day.

Alfred just laughed a bit, winking up at him playfully before finally hitting the save point, saving his game and quickly turning it off. Instead he nuzzled against Arthur's leg, yawning a bit. He was still tired but he definitely wouldn't let his exhaustion get in the way of all of this.

"You're pardoned," He joked.

He just raised an eyebrow at that. He didn't think it was all that bad actually. He saw many non-Americans also enjoying the celebrations a lot of the times if only because it was good fun and there was usually a lot of good food being served.

"Well, the Terrace does have a steak dinner along with a great view..." He murmured, mulling over it for a moment before hesitantly looking up at him and then to the games. He felt awfully bad for having Arthur spend so much money.

"You don't need to, Arthur... Twenty-four isn't a special age," He smiled a bit before sighing. He really did want to but at the same time, he felt bad enough as it was.

Arthur chuckled somewhat as Alfred nuzzled him; he really was adorable at times.

He just felt as though he might be penalised for being English more than anything else. He didn’t want to have people make any sort of remarks towards him. Whilst the majority of people weren’t like that, there were always the crazy few that reflected badly on everyone else. Arthur just didn’t want to have things shouted at or said to him which would either make him sulk, feel bad or angry. It was Alfred’s birthday and he wanted to be able to enjoy his time celebrating it with his boyfriend and, as it was probably important to Alfred, the ‘4th of July’.

He leaned down to Alfred and kissed him for a few moments before speaking against his lips, “It’s your birthday, Alfred. You’re allowed to be a little spoilt, just for today,” he kissed him again before pulling away with a slight wet sound. “If you give me the number, then I’ll see if we can book a table.” Places like that tended to get booked pretty quickly.

If they couldn’t, then at least Arthur had bought steaks for them to eat (it was times like these that he was actually glad that Alfred was too lazy to cook most of the time).

“You need to get dressed, too.”

Alfred just laughed a bit and kissed Arthur back before finally pulling away with a content sigh. He knew that there really wouldn't be anyone who would say anything to Arthur. The worst it would ever be if there was a few drunkards running about who had a hatred towards the English, which wasn't all that many actually. And they would have done that any day either way. Many Americans these days used the 4th of July just as an excuse to go out for a picnic, watch some fireworks and all the like, the meaning lost after hundreds of years. So Alfred was certain that Arthur wouldn't get any hassle at all.

Hopefully. If he did, then the poor guy who dared to open his mouth would get a fist in the face.

He licked his lips in thought, humming a bit. "Well, I guess so then. Let me get you the number." With that, he pulled out his phone and quickly went online, searching for the number before finally getting it for the other.

"Here you go. I'll go get dressed." With that, he went to the bedroom to dress into something better.

Arthur took the phone from him and frowned at the small screen. Alfred seemed to be so up to date with technology whilst Arthur just had a crappy phone to call people and send text messages. Alfred had the internet on his phone. It seemed absurd.

He typed in the number on his own phone and called the restaurant. He had to wait on the line for a while but soon enough he managed to get a table, trying to persuade the young woman on the other end of the line that he and Alfred needed to be put by the window because it was Alfred’s birthday. She wasn’t relenting so he told a lie.

“What if he was one of the top models at Chouchoute? Would that change your mind?”

It worked. Now all he had to do was make sure that Alfred looked the part when they got there.

He got up from the sofa and headed to the bedroom to give Alfred back his phone and to see if he was ready or not.

Alfred was fortunately in the bedroom when Arthur told the lie because he was certainly not one of the top models in Chouchoute. Certainly he definitely had good looks and all but other than that, he really didn't know how to pose like a model or anything. He soon changed into a casual t-shirt and jeans before finally stretching out, smiling over at Arthur as he took his phone back.

"I'm pretty much ready. How about you?" He asked curiously with a hum, looking him over quickly.

Alfred really was up to date with his technology. While he would have loved to buy a new laptop, it was something that he would just have to deal without for now. Instead he thought about it for a moment before leaning forward to peck Arthur's cheek.

"Did you get the reservations?"

“Yes, I’m ready,” Arthur straightened out his shirt, remembering the light stubble on his chin as an afterthought. It was barely visible, so hopefully Alfred wouldn’t notice. He’d just shave in the morning. He reciprocated Alfred’s actions by pecking his cheek in turn.

“Ah, yes, I did. You’ll have to look like a superstar tonight,” he murmured the last part and hoped Alfred wouldn’t ask as he patted him on the arm. “Shall we get going then, darling?”

Alfred really didn't notice the light stubble and even if he did, he really wouldn't care. He had mornings like that also where he was too lazy to shave and instead went around with a light stubble, barely noticeable. He laughed and nodded, soon grabbing his wallet and a few towels before heading towards the front door.

"Yup, of course! And don't I always look like a superstar?" He teased with a wink before reaching out to grab his hand, soon heading out of the flat.

Arthur just noticed how smooth Alfred’s skin was even though he hadn’t shaved. His skin was always softer than a baby’s bum. He had no idea how the American managed to keep it up. He just let Alfred take his hand, checking his own pocket for his wallet before heading out of the flat at his side.

“Mm,” he hummed in response. If only he knew.

Of course, the honest answer was that Arthur always thought that Alfred was the prettiest thing in the room, or in his vicinity. How could he be anything but the epitome of good looks? He was an all-American looking man with a dazzling smile (with even more dazzling teeth) and beautiful, beautiful eyes.

How Arthur had been so lucky, he didn’t know. All he knew was that he was glad that Alfred liked him in return, for whatever reason.

Alfred just pressed a quick kiss to Arthur's lips before finally pulling away and heading out of the flat. He had always been conscious of his appearances and he made sure he took extra care of his body from his teeth to his conditioned hair (he even did deep conditioning every once in a while). Of course he never seemed to be able to tame that stupid rebellious piece of hair.

He had a few times contemplated actually getting contacts but he liked the more mature look that the glasses gave him so he tended to wear them. Also they were easier to find than contacts.

Though despite this, he felt extremely fortunate to have Arthur, who satisfied him emotionally though he had to admit that the other wasn't lacking in looks either.

Soon enough he stepped outside, basking in the sunlight for a moment before heading off with Arthur.

Throughout most of the day, Alfred pulled Arthur along to see various sights and see the parade. There was definitely excitement in the air amongst all the people and soon he pulled Arthur away towards Central Park away from most of the noise. He definitely seemed to be enjoying himself and he hardly let go of Arthur's hand most of the time. Their lunch in Central Park was lighter but nice though he tried to save room for when they went up to the Terrace. It definitely was one of the most gorgeous parks in all of New York City and he made sure to bring them near the river that ran through the park, seating them both comfortably near it. It was definitely relaxing more than anything.

For the most part, it had been a nice day spent out in the sun, enjoying the festivities though at the same time keeping a distance from too much of the commotion and simply enjoying the sights. Alfred felt like a child all over again, especially as he bought hotdogs from stands and tried to force Arthur to try one of the famous New York hotdogs.

Yet now evening was approaching and Alfred had brought them back to the flat so they could change. He was nervous, he knew that the Hudson Terrace was extremely expensive and formal nonetheless and he was pretty certain that he would stick out light a sore thumb.

Despite his initial fears, Arthur had actually quite enjoyed spending the day with Alfred. It had been eventful and Arthur felt as though he’d gained cultural knowledge now having actually experienced it. But Alfred had kept him away from the rowdy festivities, which Arthur was grateful for. He didn’t really try to get involved with anything, much too proud to do so, but he didn’t say anything reprimanding to Alfred for the entire day. Something he’d forcibly tried not to do.

Arthur was also starting to get a bit anxious, just hoping that Alfred would polish up nice enough to look the part. Although, it seemed silly to think about. He knew for a fact that Alfred would look fantastic.

“So, do I need to wear a suit or a tuxedo?” he asked as he walked on ahead to the bedroom.

Alfred was glad that Arthur didn't seem to be complaining too much and he seemed to enjoy himself even if it was just a bit. Fortunately enough he had experienced enough rowdy festivals already to be able to skip this year's. After all, this was his time with Arthur.

When he was back in the flat, he tried to dress as nicely as he could, also wearing the blue tie that Arthur had given him. It fit him nicely...really nicely actually. He even cleaned himself up, putting on some cologne before he went back to Arthur in the bedroom.

"Suit should be fine. I think it's usually business casual but it's a bit more formal since it's the 4th of July. So suits should be fine," He mused, putting on his jacket as he straightened it out.

"How do I look?"

Arthur stripped himself of his clothes and put on he suit Feliciano had designed for him. It was his best suit, after all; it flattered his figure. He settled with a golden, patterned tie and spent the rest of the time grooming his hair to be at least somewhat presentable. He didn’t quite manage to slick it back like he had done at the Chouchoute ball but it was good enough to last a few hours.

He glanced across at Alfred and smiled warmly at the sight of him. ‘You look like the man I love’, he wanted to say.

“It’ll do,” he mused and walked across to him, taking the time to straighten his tie a little. “It really suits you,” he murmured before looking up at Alfred, now not bothering to keep adoration from his face.

Alfred just admired Arthur's appearance, looking down at him and cupping his face gently, thumbing his cheek. "Better be careful. All the women might look at you. I might get a bit jealous," He laughed softly before finally pulling away as he fixed up his tie. They both seemed to be definitely looking good though there was still that anticipation in his heart. He had never been to the Hudson Terrace. It was something that he had wanted to do for such a long time and now with Arthur, he finally was able to get that opportunity.

Cleaning his lenses one last time, he made sure everything was ready before heading out of the flat, waiting for Arthur once more.

"We can take the car over to the Terrace. It's not that far away at least," He mused as he snatched his car keys as well.

With that, he headed towards the Terrace, which wasn't a terribly long trip though as they got to the building, he could already feel his excitement build up. The fireworks hadn't started yet but it would probably start once they had their dinner.

“Not bloody likely,” Arthur blushed. “It’ll be the other way around, I can assure you.” He relaxed under Alfred’s touch, however and sighed softly. He’d wanted to kiss him but the moment seemed to pass as Alfred pulled away. He tried not to look disappointed.

“Alright,” he complied and followed Alfred out of the house, checking for his wallet once again. He was pretty quiet for most of the journey, beginning to question this whole short-term chastity thing. He wanted Alfred to feel good and it was his birthday, after all. Perhaps a birthday blowjob was in order? But even then, Alfred might expect more.

Was this chastity thing even a good idea? All he was trying to do was to prove that he wasn’t reliant on Alfred for sex and that he did have genuine feelings for him, stronger than the throes of passion. But he’d caught Alfred looking at him a few times. He made this cute sort of face where he frowned and pouted like he was really concentrating – but he was always really concentrating on Arthur’s hips.

Maybe it was all just caused by Peter? He had a feeling that it was.

And all this mention of marriage…

Alfred didn't really know what to do with Arthur's short-term chastity. He had a feeling it was just because he didn't want to have sex with him, that he wasn't all that physically desirable anymore despite the other's words. It had made him feel a bit insecure actually and still rather frustrated if only because even before Arthur's chastity thing, their last satisfying sexual interaction was months ago. He was a man and he had needs of course...it was just frustrating because he never wanted to confront Arthur about it.

He didn't want to put him under that pressure. Because their relationship wasn't about sex or anything like that. He was aware of that but..hadn't they proved their love enough? It had gotten to the point where Alfred didn't feel all that great about his appearances now, which was one of the main reasons why he spent so much more time trying to get fit, looking as best as he could and all the like.

Yet despite his attempts, Arthur still didn't seem to be giving in.

But he didn't want to think about that on his birthday. Even if he might not be necessarily physically attractive for Arthur anymore (maybe...he didn't know. Maybe he just didn't want have sex with him because he was too unskilled), he knew that Arthur loved him. Or else he wouldn't have done this all for him...

At least there was that.

Soon enough they got to the Terrace and he let Arthur lead the way, smiling a bit nervously.

Arthur smiled across at Alfred and led the way inside. It was a nice restaurant. It reminded Arthur faintly of the Ritz in London.

They were greeted by a Hispanic man, looking rather dapper in his uniform (in Arthur’s opinion, at least). The black apron was classy.

“Can I help you, gentlemen?” he smiled pleasantly and Arthur resisted the urge to correct his grammar.

“We have a table booked under the name Jones.” Saying it on the phone had been easy but saying it in person was making Arthur feel all tingly inside. Alfred and Arthur Jones. And that was when he realised that he was acting like a twelve-year-old girl.

The man checked his list and crossed off their name. “Right this way, please,” he began to lead them to their table which indeed was out on the terrace, right beside the wall looking out at the view. Arthur felt pained at the simplistic mind of the girl he must have been talking to on the phone. She’d believed him so readily. Hopefully she wouldn’t fall for anything else like that. Although, she probably only agreed as to not get in trouble with her boss or with the company.

“Here are your menus; a waiter will be with you shortly,” the Hispanic man smiled and was gone.

Arthur was quite taken with the view as he took his seat.

Alfred couldn't help but raise his eyebrow when he heard that the name was under the reservation of Jones. Honestly, he thought that Arthur would reserve under his own name...but...it didn't seem to be the case. Instead he smiled over at him reassuringly, also a bit nervous but it seemed as if he wasn't the only one who felt this way. Instead he headed to their table, eyes wide with wonder as he looked at the gorgeous view.

"Wow...this is really, really nice," He murmured, an excited grin on his lips though he tried to contain himself so he didn't seem too excited. Yet anyone who knew him well enough could see the excitement playing in his eyes.

He wondered how the hell Arthur was able to get them a window seat though, especially on the day of the celebration. It was truly a wonder but he wouldn't question Arthur's ways.

"I really like this Arthur...it's definitely an amazing birthday present. Thank you." He reached out to grab Arthur's hand lightly, squeezing it with a small smile before looking around the rest of the Terrace curiously.

Arthur just smiled coolly, affectionately across at Alfred as though he’d had it all planned from the start. Although that clearly wasn’t the case. It was just luck. He held Alfred’s hand and rubbed the back of it with his thumb.

“I’d do anything for you,” he said before he could help himself. He then spluttered. “I mean, you’re welcome.” He was red in the face as he looked away, staring determinedly at the outside world. “Just, um, just enjoy yourself.” He cleared his throat.

“It’s pretty up here, isn’t it?” It was definitely one of the nicest views he’d ever seen of a cityscape.

Alfred looked over at Arthur with surprise before a gentle smile spread across his lips, relaxing a bit at that. "...Thank you," He whispered, more directed towards Arthur's first statement than anything else. He simply relaxed as he felt the back of his hand be rubbed by Arthur's thumb.

"It's gorgeous. It really makes me love New York when I can see the cityscape like this."

He continued on gazing outside before finally looking back at Arthur, sighing contently.

This was definitely one of his favourite birthdays. It had been nothing but amazing.

Arthur muttered something to himself about how he’d become a sentimental fool but gazed over at Alfred regardless.

“I can understand why,” he said with a nod. “It’s really something,” he was looking at their hands as he said it. He couldn’t help but note to himself just how right it felt to be holding Alfred’s hand, celebrating his birthday with him.

“What would you like to eat?” he asked, not wanting to let go of Alfred’s hand although he needed to look at the menu.

Alfred just laughed a bit and soon he reached over to grab the menu before looking over the menu curiously. All of it looked really damned good...he was going to definitely have a hard time choosing what he wanted. Looking it over once more, he hesitated. It was all really expensive...and he felt really bad for bringing Arthur here but he appreciated it anyways.

He would definitely make sure he got something back just as good.

"I think the charcuterie platter looks really good with the three artisanal cheese's supp...thing as an appetiser and the berkshire pork tenderloin..." He murmured, pondering a bit. "And the gianduja chocolate tart for dessert!"

He felt really bad now...it was all really expensive. "And maybe some wine also. How about you?"

“Fish du Jour,” Arthur said simply. He liked fish, a lot actually. It was light, as well. Even if he’d only picked at his lunch, he didn’t have a big appetite like Alfred. He wasn’t too sure about dessert. It wasn’t something that he usually ate and whilst he loved chocolate, the thing Alfred was having sounded much too rich for him, just from reading the description. The banana, custardy thing sounded nice though.

“I’m up for some wine, as well. Just don’t let me get drunk,” he murmured, sitting back in his seat.

It was odd to think back to how he used to worry about what people thought of them together in public.