A/N: Shiny new fandom has given me inspiration. Written as part of a multi-fandom drabble tag on LJ.
Winter Snow
The falling snow muffled all sounds, leaving Italy feeling alone and in complete awe. He stuck his tongue out to see what one of the snowflakes tasted like before giggling and tossing himself into a fluffy snow bank.
He used to spend every winter with his brother in the south where he could stay warm and there was no snow. Even before that, he always stayed inside Austria's house and never went outside in the winter because it was too cold. But this year he had decided to stay home by himself. Admittedly, it was a little scary sleeping all alone, but he could do it. He needed to learn to not depend on other countries for help!
When the first snow began to fall, Italy ran outside to stare up at the sky in wonder. He stayed out until it began to grow dark and scurried inside to hide under his blankets with a nice bowl of pasta. The snow kept falling until he drifted off to sleep, face landing in the mostly empty bowl.
Morning brought more silence. Italy sat up with a noodle stuck to his face and gleefully ran to the front door to play in the snow again. Tripping over something in front of the door, he crashed into the ground with a shout.
The thing Italy tripped over grunted and kicked him. "This is the thanks I get for shoveling you out?"
Italy sat up quickly, recognizing the voice. "Germany!" He scrambled around to sit by Germany's head. "Hey, why are you here?"
Sitting up, Germany stared in disgust at the noodle still hanging onto Italy's face. He peeled it off and tossed it away, knowing that he'd now need to find some disinfectant for his gloves. He grumbled out, "Figured you wouldn't be able to get out with all the snow. Came to help." Expecting the normally affectionate Italian to hug him in thanks, Germany steeled himself. What he didn't expect was for Italy to pout and walk away.
Germany grabbed hold of Italy to keep him from walking off, giving the other man a look. Italy shook his head furiously. "I didn't need Germany's help; I woulda been just fine!"
Snorting, Germany got up and pulled his coat back on before opening the door to leave. A small tug on his arm was the only thing that kept him from walking forward. "Wait," Italy tugged him back inside. "It's kinda scary here by myself." The door was closed and remained closed until spring came again.