martytries:

Alfred decided to pass by Ivan’s workshop the night of the 24th, not really knowing the reason why , surely the other man would have been together with someone , enjoining the night….but if there was the chance that the Russian was still  there he could have actually wished him happy holidays  before heading to his family’s party and letting the other go as well . 

It was a few minutes walk , the night cold and silent . When he finally arrived the lights were on , was Ivan still working?  

He strolled inside , flashing a smile and greeting the other man , who was currently working on something at his worktable, not even noticing the new presence in his shop . “Good evening ,  Ivan”  the Russian turned , a bit surprised, before recognizing the other and smiling back . “ Hello Mr Jones , what brings you here at such a time? “  

 “ Just wanted to wish you happy holidays before heading home…  I imagine you have plans too today , right?” . At that , Ivan stood up and went to fetch some objects “Ah , not really , family is not here anyway . But then , Christmas Eve is not really that important so I do not mind , “  Alfred eyes widened a bit  in surprise at such answer , and he quickly stepped in front of Ivan , grabbing his jacket  “ What? Nonsense! You cannot spend Christmas eve working alone! A good man such as you doesn’t deserve so much loneliness , especially tonight!” Ivan simply blinked down at the man , confused by his strong reaction “ But Mr Jones , you really shouldn’t worry-” the Russian didn’t even had the change to finish the sentence as Alfred looked up at him , blue eyes wide and and red cheeks , was the other embarrassed?

“No please , say no more.” the blonde’s grip tighten just a bit more “ I cannot let you have such a lame night . As a friend…as a decent man…I’m obliged to do something about it “ Ivan stared back , embarrassed by the blonde’s reaction and by how close he was “ Really , it’s perfectly fine-” 

“No is not , a good man such as you can’t stay alone , not today” Alfred furrowed , cheeks still red “ please come with me. I can lend you some clothes of your size, I am sure we’ll have something at my house… You would be my guest of honor , I’d love to have your company at the party . And if that means I could actually steal you from your loneliness tonight….I’d be honored, really “

Ivan could see on the other’s expression the fear of rejection , he could see that the other was scared , ashamed maybe?  Probably his refusal would have hurt the other’s pride , he could Imagine those eyes looking down , defeated , see the man walking outside sulking , silent , maybe with a few apologies. 

He couldn’t ruin the other’s night  , and honestly he wouldn’t mind to spend the night with the young man . He was good person after all , Ivan cherished his friendship…

“That’d be very nice , as long as you are sure it won’t be a problem…”  Alfred smiled at that , relieved and happy that the other accepted his invitation 

“Believe me is not” he then let the other go and waited for him to close the shop before heading out with him .

As the two figures walked down in the night , Ivan though on how could he explain at the other that Christmas for him was on the seventh of January,  while the other couldn’t stop thinking that he actually managed to, somehow ,finally  take the other man on a date.

—————————————————————————————————-

MERRY XMAS to  @fabelhaft-klarinette!   Have some Steampunk AU ! Hope you’ll enjoy!