Call You Mine

Chapter 6

Chapter 6

The room filled with a few introductory bars before Saint embarked on his version of Carly Rae Jepsen's "Call Me Maybe". Mustang found it a challenge to contain his amusement as he fought to stifle his laughter, barely managing to keep himself upright as the song continued on and on.

Hey, I just met you, and this is crazy
But here's my number, so call me, maybe
And all the other boys try to chase me

But here's my number, so call me, maybe

Before you came into my life, I missed you so bad
I missed you so bad, I missed you so, so bad...

Suddenly Lancelot stopped singing and shouted very enthusiastically "Robin!", as he held up his cell phone.

"Where?" The Pup asked looking around for the man, before earning a smack to the back of the head by HolyGrail. "He's on the phone, you idiot!"

"Robin! I've misssssed you, are you ok, wheeeen are you home? Why not call?" Lancelot asked concern lacing his voice as he swayed on his feet, it was clear now that he'd had more to drink than everyone else.

"Lancelot, I've missed you as well, have you been drinking? You're slurring your words. Why is it so loud where you are? I can barely hear you."

"Guy's it's really Robin!" Lancelot announced to the room as if there had been any doubt the first time, completely ignoring Robin's questions.

There were shouts of different greetings, some more colorful than others, as everyone suddenly was trying to say hello to Saint's lover. Seeing Saint struggle to get a word in, Mustang decided it was time to intervene, "That's enough out of everyone! Let Saint talk to Robin in peace, I'm sure he doesn't have much time to talk!"

All at once the knights snapped to attention, Mustang surveyed his men, their disciplined reaction a testament to their years in the Air Force and respect for the hierarchy. Their attempt to hide their sheepish grins hinted at the awareness of having crossed a line, under their commander's reproachful gaze. With a subtle gesture, he eased the rigid tension, allowing them to relax. "At Ease**", Mustang commanded, his voice carrying authority but also understanding. "Saint, finish your call and come back here at once. Please give my regards to Robin---let him know I hope he's doing well," he directed his second in command with a tone that blended instruction with genuine concern. Mustang acknowledged the need for disciplinary measures but also understood the significance of personal connections, particularly in their line of work where isolation from loved ones could deeply affect morale. Mustang wasn't about to let Saint off the hook; however, he understood the importance of this call. Mustang's decision was a testament to his leadership---a blend of authority and empathy, that he integrated in both the demands of command and the emotional needs of his team.

"Raptor, make sure he makes it back here in one piece?" Mustang requested of his scout as he turned off the music. HolyGrail, The Pup, and Tinder exchanged bewildered looks, clearly surprised by the scout's sudden appearance. Their looks conveying the silent question: "When did he get here?" There was loud protesting when the men realized the music was turned off; however, one sharp imposing glare from their commander swiftly and effectively silenced them at once.