For those of you who do not yet know me. I am TinkanaiT32 AKA the Truthsayer of Fanfiction. I tell the dramatic truth, the whole dramatic truth, and nothing but the dramatic truth. My reviews are lengthy, legendary, and love-filled (Okay maybe not so much the middle but that's how I view it). And for those who do know me...
Ello' Chick-a-dees! Long time no see..uh…write…er…you know what I mean! I missed you guys (and girls) like crazy. What began as enlightenment quickly grew into torture. Quit FF?! How in the world could I possibly do that? Answer: Obviously I couldn't. I tried really hard, but my OTPs and favorite authors just dragged me back in.
I also found out I'm now a Tony/Loki (Avengers) fangirl while I was away and that good PruCan was severely lacking on FF. So this brings me to my latest project. A PruCan one-shot to get me back into the swing of things. And maybe…just maybe I'll bring back my old fanfics (new and improved of course).
Well Chick-a-dees, have a happy Thanksgiving and enjoy~
Warning: Man on Man kissing (although I know that's the exact reason you all came here XP)
Disclaimer: I do not, have not, and will not ever own the rights to Hetalia. Now let me sulk about that fact in peace.
"Oh Maple," I sighed for what seemed like the umpteenth time in the last ten minutes. I didn't know why I did this to myself. Honestly, I must have been a closet masochist to continuously endure the torture also known as the loud, rowdy, pushy country: America. And what did my brother done this time? Well simply put he had the bright idea to invite to world over (and I'm not exaggerating) for a Thanksgiving dinner potluck.
Well, actually now that I though about it, if China brought over his famous steam buns then I guess it wasn't too bad of an idea, but that's not the point! The point is that Thanksgiving is a Western holiday and yet he expects everyone to celebrate it. I'll have you know, us Canadians have our own Thanksgiving and I spent it last month happily as I watched the annual Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest parade. It's not my fault that it happened to be around the time of Columbus Day for Americans (and don't even get me started on what a farce that holiday is).
I was hoping to use this time as a break from America's usual antics, but would he let me at least have the holidays to myself? No, of course not. So there I was, at the front door of America's home holding a dish of my country's famous Saskatoon berry pie in one hand and Figgy duff in the other waiting for the host to open the door and let me in. Finally, I heard a loud barking laugh that could only come from the bold North American country, and sure enough not 5 seconds later the door opened and my violet eyes met with brilliant blue. Following suit, a familiar blonde invaded my vision as he pulled me into a bone-crushing hug, albeit awkwardly because of my full hands off to the side. When he finally let go and I could breathe (Did super strength come with being a super power?), I got an earful.
"Canadia! Glad you could make it! Come on in!" I sighed as he once again butchered my proud name, but said nothing. Every time I corrected him, he just seemed to forget the next time we saw each other anyway. I gratefully stepped inside into the surprisingly moderately decorated foyer and shivered at the pleasant sensation of going from cold to warm. When he motioned to take my coat, I gestured to the dishes in my hands.
"Oh! Whatcha bring?!" He shouted, never really knowing what using your inside voice entailed.
"Saskatoon berry pie and Figgy duff."
"Sounds funky," he said wrinkling his nose. "I like it!" He grabbed the two dished from me so I could relieve myself of the heavy coat. "Come on, let's take these to the kitchen with the rest of the dishes," he told me rather than suggested. When I entered the kitchen, the first thing my eyes landed on was the counter nearly full of dishes. I sniffed the air, and yes, the aroma of China's steamed buns filled the air along with the distinct smell of Pumpkin pie and many other foreign scents.
"As you can see, there are already quite a few other countries that arrived. They are in the living room." America then proceeded to lead (read: manhandle) me to the aforementioned room where the other countries have already made themselves at home.
China and Russia were playing what seemed like a drinking card game. Honestly, it just could have been a regular card game and Russia was drinking from a bottle of vodka just for the hell of it. Greece was curled on one of the couches taking a nap. It never ceased to amaze me how he could sleep through the noise (it was the same at world meetings as well).
Poland was showing off his new 'Fresh-Off-The-Rack Fall season boots' that he bought recently that just went 'so well' with his double breasted overcoat. And it did truly. No one could deny the Polish man had style. Spain was pestering Romano again it seemed and the shorter Italian was blushing furiously. A few words drifted over to me, something about tasting his drumstick, and I quickly tuned out that conversation.
In one corner was a group of South Asian countries singing into a karaoke machine. Foreign words flowed slowly from their mouths (ni wen wo ai ni you duo shen?), but it was beautiful none the less. I listened for a few moments longer, smiling softly when I saw the small Taiwan, dress flowing around her as she gave her all to the heartfelt performance. Eyes roaming the room once more I spotted England and France bickering, no surprise there. England looked ready to throttle the Frenchman, while the other just laughed in the other's reddening face.
All in all, the atmosphere was warm and inviting…but I didn't immediately go to join in. I knew that if I tried to join in a game or discussion then I'd get a "Who are you?" or worse "America, are you wearing contacts?" So I just stayed to myself most of the time, and that suited me just fine. I was more of an observer anyway, and the other countries where more than entertaining to watch. Especially when thrown together in an event such as this.
My eyes wandered once more, this time to the décor. It was interesting to say the least, seeing America's home for the first time. I don't know what I was expecting. Cowboy and Indian wallpaper? Sports jerseys decorating the walls? A disco ball hanging from the ceiling perhaps? Whatever my mind had conjured up was nothing compared to reality. The furniture was a mix of dark mahogany tables and black leather sofas. A large 50 inch flat screen television took up a good portion of the back wall and was currently displaying the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. A few potted plants took residence in the corners of the room and towards the back were glass doors that led to what I assumed was a backyard.
I retraced my steps back to the foyer and passed by an archway. Curious, I ventured a little further into the house and walked down a hallway which I found that along the walls were a few abstract paintings. I walked over to get a closer look, surprised at the presence of such art. I mean I didn't take America for a Kandinsky fan. There was even one from Pollock as well a few yards down. One painting in particular caught my eye. If I had to describe it, it looked like a twisted city on a hill. The sky, a collage of colors with seemingly random thick black lines, cut across the canvas, and here was also a rocket in the corner…or was it a hand? On second thought, I really had no clue what the painting was supposed to be. I guess that's the reason it's abstract.
I quickly grew bored with my failed attempts at guessing the meaning behind the artworks and was considering flipping the painting 180 degrees just to see if my brother would take notice when I was suddenly bumped into from behind. A startled 'eep' escaped my lips involuntarily, and I flailed my arms trying to keep my balance. Strong arms wrapped around my waist to keep me steady and I jerked at the unfamiliar feeling, causing my glasses to sit askew on my nose.
Two red blurs appeared in front of my face, but when I corrected my glasses and blinked a few times, they slowly became two crimson eyes. Well, that was certainly something you don't see everyday. Though I really shouldn't judge with my own violet orbs. Further inspection revealed pale white skin and above was an equally pale tuff of wild hair on the other's head. Lowering my gaze back to the other's eyes, I noticed the amused look he was giving me and realized I was staring way too long than deemed socially acceptable. Not only that, but I was still captured in his arms while my hands were resting on the stranger's rather muscled biceps. With a slight cough, and most likely red face, I quickly regained my ability to stand on my own two feet and moved away from him.
"Es tut mer leid," the voice spoke lowly before continuing in English "Sorry about that." My brain didn't register the English for a while because it decided to take a vacation at that exact moment. W-was that German? The German language was always a fascination of mine, but...my mind was a least present enough to realize that the person in front of me certainly was not the robust country of Germany. Then who...? The thoughts trailed off as I was once again reminded of just how long I was staring, but I was also aware of the other staring right back. I felt myself warm up slightly as I cleared my throat.
"I-it's no problem," I managed to say after a while, and maybe I might have said more (like...oh I don't know...asking what country he represented), but unfortunately, or fortunately depending on how you look at it, there was a shout behind us and my mysterious partner turned his head to respond.
"Ich bin hier! Einen moment!" Oh yes, that was definitely German. When he turned around he gave me an apologetic look. If I didn't know any better I'd say he was pouting. Which was weird...unless...unless maybe he wanted to talk to me as well? No, I didn't dare hope and quickly shot down the thought. It was a miracle in itself that he noticed me in the first place."Gotta go," he told me and I nodded for lack of a better response.
It was only after he left that I realized I was holding my breath and let it out in a huff. Just what was that all about? And just who was he? Shaking my head I decided to just return to the living room. More countries have obviously arrived and I wanted to observe some more. And if I just happen to see my mysterious companion and find out his identity than so be it. I was just about to enter when a loud shout reached my ears. Who else but America? I sighed and walked into the room when another equally loud voice responded. Now that was different. I looked around to spot the origin of the noise and my eyes landed on two figures in the foyer, one being the stranger I had just met and the other my dear brother. They were engaged in...rock paper scissors? Wh-what?
"Okay then, best 2 out of 3, Prussia!" America was yelling. "And then you can be allowed to eat with the rest of us countries."
"Kesesese...the Awesome me doesn't need permission to do anything! But I'll humor you!" Were his words, but I spotted a bit of tension in his eyes and around his mouth. Then suddenly America's words registered in my mind and drew me a pause. Prussia? The crimson eyed stranger was Prussia?! I've heard tales, of course, about the once great and mighty Prussia, but I've never seen pictures or even descriptions of what he looked like. Hell, I didn't even know he still existed! Weren't personifications of countries supposed to disappear with their respective countries or something? For him to still exist...my thoughts were interrupted by a shrill yell.
"Rock, paper, scissors...schießen!" Prussia yelled forming his hand into the shaper of paper effectively winning over America's rock. "Take that!"
"Okay, you have earned the right to be with us countries this time!" America shouted, but the large smile showed it was all in good humor. "Welcome to my home! Mi casa es su casa and all that jazz, so enjoy!"
Prussia raised an eyebrow, but just nodded his thanks. The crowd that had seemed to accumulate around the two dispersed and the atmosphere was once again filled with conversations. Most not even in English. I stayed off to the side by myself staring not so creepily at Prussia wondering if I should just approach him or not. I never got the chance anyway when a shout rang out telling everyone the football game was starting. There was an unanimous decision (read: America declared) for everyone to move to the living room to watch the football game. In truth, half of the countries had rolled their eyes and commented on the lackluster sport, claiming soccer was far superior. Well that didn't settle well with the other half comprised of die-hard sports fanatics, and World War III was almost upon us when someone had the bright idea to have an actual football and soccer game in America's spacious backyard to see which one was better.
The actual football game forgotten, everyone rushed out back to form the two teams up. I wasn't surprised to see it turn into a game of Western vs Eastern countries. Typical. As for me, I remained undetected when they starting forming teams and walked over to the backyard porch where table and chairs were set up and watched dutifully from the sidelines. For once the fact that I seemed invisible to the world worked in my favor since I was more a hockey person than anything. So there I sat alone on the porch, curled in my favorite red hoodie with a white maple leaf on it. Alone. Or at least I was until a familiar streak of white crossed my peripherals as someone sat to the right of me.
I stared wide eyed not sure what I should do, my thoughts running wild. D-did he mean to do sit here next to me? Oh what was I thinking of course not, he probably didn't even realize I was there. And yet as soon as those words were thought Prussia turned towards me with that same amused expression gracing his features. "Hallo again," he said and my eyes widened. He...he remembered me?
"You remember me?" I had to say out loud just to see if it was true.
"Of course," he said as if it were an impossible thing to do and that made me pause. I was just so used to everyone forgetting about me or just not seeing me. Why the thought that I might be remembered just once was completely foreign to me...but also nice. Realizing there was a silence creeping between us I racked my brain to find something, anything to say to break it, but the other beat me to it.
"I'm Prussia by the way. I realized we didn't get a change to be properly introduced." I thought back to our first meeting and the warm feeling of being held. The close proximity of our bodies, faces barely a foot apart..."And you are..." he prompted, bringing me back to the conversation.
"I'm Canadia," I said without thinking. By the time I realized what I said I was mortified. "I mean Canada!" I hurried to correct, my arms flailing about. "I'm Canada." Way to go self, now he thinks you're an idiot, I thought bitterly. I snuck a glace at him just to see if I had completely lost his interest (or worst scared him away) and found that his lips pursed but twitching like he wanted to laugh, but was holding himself back. For that I was grateful, but still horribly embarrassed. Trying to redeem myself I turned the spotlight towards him.
"Why aren't you out there playing?" I asked because he seemed like the sporty type if the muscles I felt when in his arms had anything to say about it.
"Eh...not my scene." Well, I was completely wrong. No surprise there. "Actually I don't even know the rules, so if it doesn't make sense then it's not that enjoyable to me."
I nodded my head in agreement. "Football isn't that hard to understand. There are much less rules than baseball or basketball for that matter."
He arched an eyebrow in surprise. "Really? At first I thought it was get the ball and run, but then there's all these flags being thrown around," he said and his words rang true when a shrill whistle filled the air. It seemed that the Eastern team was thrown yellow flag for using martial arts during the football game. The referee (Hungary with her deadly frying pan) calmly explained that flips were not allowed in the game and that made me chuckle softly. See why I enjoy observing?
At Prussia's questioning gaze, I explained the situation to him and that led to more laughter. Seizing the moment, I explained the basic rules of football to him, even going as far to elaborate on exceptions to the rules or the sports jargon used. He nodded along and seemed to soak up the information I gave him, interrupting only a handful of times to clarify a few things.
As we watched the game, I was proud when he started pointing out specifics of the game on his own. A particularity smug look adored my face when he shouted at the ref for making an obvious foul call. The look, however, quickly vanished when a frying pan sailed past my head making me jump and emit a small 'eep' in surprise. Beside me Prussia didn't even try to hide his snickers, and soon I was joining him.
"Birdie!" Prussia suddenly shouted beside me, ceasing my laughter and causing me to jump for the second time in less than a minute. "That's it, I'm gonna call you Birdie," he continued with a determined nod of his head.
"Pardon?" I was really confused at the turn the conversation had taken.
"That's gonna be my nickname for you, because of that adorable 'eep' sound you make when you're surprised. It reminds me of my pet bird. So Birdie it is, or maybe Vögelchen is more suitable." He seemed to mutter to himself.
I stared wide eyed at the man beside me for many reasons. The two biggest ones being 1) did we even know each other long enough to give nicknames, and 2) did he say adorable? I shook my head in disbelief and watched as his face fell.
"Do you not like it?"
"What?" I asked alarmed at his crestfallen expression then remember my previous gesture. "Oh no, it's not that!" I hurried to reassure him because that pout was dangerous. "I'm okay with the nickname...I guess."
"Which one? Birdie or Vögelchen?"
"What does...Vögelchen mean?" I asked hoping I didn't butcher the pronunciation.
"Birdie," he said simply and even if they meant the same thing, having the German nickname appealed to me much more than the English one. When I told him so, the smile he gave me in return had heat rising up my face. Wanting to get the spotlight off of me, I spoke about something he had mentioned earlier. "You have a pet bird?"
"I said pet, but Gilbird is really apart of the family."
"Girlbird?" I parroted.
"That's his name!" he explained gleefully. "He's a small yellow chick with just the softest feathers. He loves to nest in my hair and pecks me whenever he's upset, but it never hurts. He's really smart too! I taught him how to fetch me simple things in case I needed something. Such an awesome bird deserved such an awesome name and thus Gilbird was named!" He exclaimed and I couldn't help but get caught up in his infectious enthusiasm. I marveled in the way his red eyes nearly sparkled as he talked, and I had no doubt in my mind that the little bird was loved dearly.
I thought about my own pet polar bear Kuma...whatsit something or other. His full name had always escaped me, so I had gotten into the habit of just calling him Kuma. He on the other hand forgoes my name entirely and just calls me Owner. We have a understanding between the two of us. I care for him and he keeps me from getting too lonely. Honestly though, running my hand through his soft fur while we watch players violently clash on the rink is the best way to spend my days. Since he's no taller than my knee standing I can't help but coddle him. He acts like he hates the treatment, but I know he loves it.
"I can understand how you feel a little," I confessed. "I have a pet as well."
"What is it?" he asked but then changed his mind. "No wait let me guess. Cat?"
"Nope," I gave a sly smile at the typical guess.
"Dog?" he tried again and I had to keep myself from laughing.
"Uh-un."
"Platypus?"
That caused me to nearly choke on laughter. "Oh Maple no!"
"Well then I give up. What is it?"
I giggled (yes giggled) and told him, watching as he jaw dropped in shock. "A polar bear."
"A polar bear?" he repeated slowly in disbelief. "As in...a huge white fluffy but vicious polar bear?!"
"Not so big and not so vicious unless I forget to feed him, but yes," I shrugged since it wasn't such a big deal to me anymore. "He talks too," I added as an afterthought. Prussia gave me a blank stare.
"Okay, now I know you're lying. He does not talk."
"He does," I confirmed. "Not overly complicated sentences, but he gets his message across."
"Vögelchen," he said grabbing my hands in excitement. "That is entirely too awesome!" he exclaimed and I ducked my head to hide the blush. Part at the praise and use of my new nickname, but mostly at the warm feeling of his hands in mine.
"It's not really," I murmured and he gave me a look that clearly stated he disagreed but thankfully left it at that. Unfortunately, he also let go off my hands and I ignored the sudden cold feeling.
There was a comfortable silence that followed as we watched the soccer game start. Almost immediately the Western team was yellow carded for catching the airborne soccer ball with their hands. Without thinking I leaned over to explain, and then automatically filled him on the basic rules of soccer as well. Just like with football he was quick to catch on. We took turns calling out good and bad plays. After a moment he turned towards me with what I've come to know as his signature smirk.
"You seem to know a lot," he praised and once again I felt my cheeks get warm before I mentally cursed myself. What was with me today? l've never blushed so much before, but then again I never had a reason to.
"Uh no, not really," I waved it off. "Just a few things I picked up while observing them all play," I explained.
"Oh that reminds me, why aren't you out there playing?"
"Oh um...me?" I said lamely, and he gave me a look that said 'who else' which I ignored. "I'm not much of a football player, besides even if I did play I wouldn't be doing much." That seemed to get his attention.
"Why's that?" Prussia asked, genuinely curious, and I wondered how I should approach the topic. I didn't want to scare a potential friend away, but on the other hand he was bound to find out anyway. So I told him the truth.
"People don't notice me. It's almost as if I become invisible. It's always been this way," I confessed. "Even if I were wide open with my arms waving back and forth still no one would notice. No one ever does."
"Well, I notice you," he pointed out.
"Yeah, something I'm still trying to figure out," I retorted with a humorless laugh.
"It's simple. I'm an Awesome guy who notices Awesome things."
"Pardon?" I stared at him with my eyebrows furrowed in question.
"I said I'm an Awesome guy who notices Awesome things." At my continued confusion he sighed. "I saying your awesome." That made me pause, but I was given no time to retort. "How could anyone not see you?"
"Pardon?" I repeated.
"I mean you're a pretty interesting guy if I do say so myself, and I do. Not to mention purple eyes are definitely something you don't see everyday. And with you're glasses they just look so huge and...beautiful..." he trailed off lowly seemingly embarrassed. But that was nothing compared to what I was feeling. I swear my eyes were close to popping out of my head in response to his words. No one had ever complemented my appearance before.
"I...uh...thank you," I said lowly, my face positively burning.
"Uh...n-no problem," he replied equally flushed, an action much more noticeable on his pale skin. Then there was an awkward silence that I rushed to fill.
"So, uh...I've never seen you before now," I said before mentally rolling my eyes. Well besides world meetings I barely get out myself and it's not like I'd see the dissolved country at the meetings in the first place. He confirmed my thoughts a moment later.
"I don't usually get out much. Can't do much without a country nowadays," he said nonchalant and I held back a wince. The way he said it like it was just fact made me feel...well bad for lack of a better word. However, he seemed to make peace with the fact that he was no longer was a country. My mind traveled back to when America said Prussia could eat with "the rest of us countries" if he could win the game, and I felt a wave of pity pass through me. Those words that didn't register to me before seemed so harsh now.
"Um...so...what do you...do then?" I asked not wanted to seem rude, but my curiosity got the better of me.
"Drink."
"Pardon?" I seem to be saying that a lot around him.
"Drink, go to the night clubs in Germany. Laze about in my room," he shrugged. "Like I said there's not much to do. In order for me to travel I would need to be escorted by a country and I'm not too friendly with the rest of the world. To be honest, I think they are still blame me for about World War II. Poland just runs away when he sees me."
"Oh," I said dejectedly, though I wasn't sure what answer I was expected anyway. I would have thought not being bound to a country made you free, turns out it was the exact opposite.
"Don't make that sound. I'm not missing much from what I see from mein bruder. Just work, meetings and the occasional get together like this. I'm actually pretty happy! No more strategic meetings, no more drafting policies, no more regulating commerce and best of all no more paying the price for my citizens idiotic mistakes. I have so much free time!" He exclaimed smiling a wide smile, but even I could tell it was strained. I know too well about those types of smiles.
"Oh." I repeated because what else could I say? It's actually really great personifying a country? And just would I know about that anyway? I didn't know which was worse. Existing without a country to represent, or representing a country that everyone ignores.
"We're quite the pair, hun?" I said softly.
"What?" he asked with a raised an eyebrow.
"One of the world's mightiest countries dissolved, and one of the world's biggest countries ignored." Maple that sounded less depressing in my head.
I wouldn't know his opinion on my statement though because at that moment the game drew to a close. The two games ending with the Western countries winning the football game and the Eastern countries winning the soccer game. They came together for a handshake afterwards and just agreed to disagree before brushing the dirt of their shoes and clothing and then reentered the house. Prussia and I followed suit.
The call for the start of the meal came soon after and we were lead by America into a large dinning room with walls the color of autumn. Oranges and reds and yellows dotted the walls with a few knick-knacks along a shelf that hung on one side. In the center was a long table that was fit for a castle. It easily sat 30 people in the beautifully carved chairs, however, it was the food on top of the table, however, that captured everyone's attention.
There was such a way array of dishes including farofa from Brazil, okonomiyaki from Japan, golabki from Poland, boliche from Cuba, pyttipanna from Sweden and so many more. The mixing smells were intoxicating and everyone rushed to be in their seats. I just so happened to get a seat right across from Prussia, and that made me just a tab bit more happy than it should have. Before we had a chance to dig in, however, America cleared his throat from where he sat at the head of the table. I rolled my eyes, neither surprised nor impressed at his display.
"Okay everyone before we eat, it's tradition to say what we are thankful for on this fine November day! I'll go first," he like it was a chore but it was clear he reviled in the attention. "Dudes and dudettes," America gestured to the various countries around the table. "I'm thankful for all of you coming to my home to spend the holidays." There were nods around the table agreeing with the blonde and then he gestured to his left for the next person to start.
France stood with grace and looked around the table. "I am thankful for..la amour." He also gestured to the person of his left to start and so on it went around the table, countries thankful for one thing or another. A flourishing economy, an end to recent civil unrest, elections finally done and over with ect. When it came close to my turn, I pondered what I was thankful for. My country was doing great by today's standards. Economy is good. Nothing threatening public safety. Oh well actually the parliament shooting was a bit of a sore spot, but it could have been worse, and I'm happy that veteran was there to stop the shooter.
I came out of my thoughts just in time for South Korea, who sat to my right, to finish speaking and sit down. I was standing and about to open my mouth when the person to my left had risen and started his own speech. My mouth snapped shut and felt my body freeze up in embarrassment before I lowered myself back to my seat dejectedly. Of course, I would have been skipped over. I'm not sure why I was even surprised. I guess I got too comfortable with talking to Prussia and having someone just notice me that I had forgotten for a bit how invisible I was. However, no sooner had those thoughts popped into my mind did his voice invade my ears.
"Hallo? It wasn't your turn!"
My head shot up on it's own accord and my gaze sought out the brazen albino's. D-did he just...?
"Wot?" said the accented voice of England. "No, it's my turn," he argued, bushy eyebrows furrowing in confusion.
Prussia didn't let up. "No," he replied his voice tense. "It's his." He stared pointedly at me and my face grew warm. Even more so after the brit sputtered next to me.
"Oh, sorry chap, I didn't see you there. Go along then," he told me returning to his seat.
Of course you didn't, I thought bitterly, but forced down those feelings. "Um..." I started when I realized the whole table was staring at me and I awkwardly stood. "I-I'm thankful for...uh...I'm thankful for..." My eyes met brilliant scarlet and I smiled a small shy smile. "I'm thankful for all the people I have met." My lips may have formed the word 'all', but my mind said there was only one and I was looking at him. I saw his lips curl up into a half smile half smirk, and I tried to no avail to stop the butterflies from going wild in my stomach. I ducked my head bashfully as I sat back down and the sharing continued on after me.
More statements of thankfulness filled the room. Thankful for the raise in the monetary value of their currency, their military protecting their citizens, their budding relationships with neighboring countries and so on and so on. When it came time for Prussia to speak, the table waited with abated breath. He stood and stared at everyone, having their attention and knowing it.
"What I am most thankful for.." he paused for dramatic effect, "is that I found someone to be awesome with," he concluded giving the table a rather boyish smile, but his eyes were trained on mine the whole time.
That didn't seem to be what everyone was expecting at all and there were confused looks being thrown around, everyone trying to figure out just who this special person was. Meanwhile, my heart was pounding in my ears at his words. Surely he didn't mean...me? No impossible. It couldn't be me, we had only just met after all. Yes that's it. It was obviously someone else who captured the albinos attention, not...me. And those thoughts just made my chest ache all the more. My shoulders slumped and I dropped my gaze, missing the confused look on Prussia's face when I did. I tuned out most of the other countries declarations of thanks, lost in my own destructive thoughts until it came time for the last country to speak: Spain.
"I'm thankful for mi tomato, Romano~" he said unashamed blowing a kiss to the Southern Italian country.
"Bastardo! I'll kill you!" said country yelled clutching a silver fork in his right hand.
"Awww...fratello. How sweet~" Italy cooed to the displeasure of his brother, but the other just crossed his arms and looked away, his face a bright red to rival the nickname Spain bestowed upon him. I smiled at the interaction, but it was a bittersweet one in knowing that I might never had that type of relationship with someone. Fortunately, the meal started, giving me something to occupy myself with as everyone began picking up a dish nearby and filling their plates. At least until someone called something to attention.
"Hey, England?" Finland asked, an ever present smile on his youthful face.
"Wot?"
"Which dish to you bring?" There was a distinct pause in action after the question was asked.
"The Yorkshire pudding...why? England said glaring suspiciously everyone who suddenly stopped to take interest in the conversation. Under the glare everyone returned to sharing the dishes, but it was clear no one went towards the aforementioned dish.
"Oh, no reason," the other chirped going back to the turkey in front of him.
At first there was nothing but the sounds of silverware scrapping against plates and polite requests to pass over a dish, but afterwards the room was filled with conversations. Dinner with 20 something odd countries was surreal. Snatches of conversations floated over my head, some in English, but most in the other countries native tongue. It was a spectacular event to witness, and being the silent observer I am I relished in the chance to glean cultural things from around me. One thing I quickly learned was not everyone used the same utensils. While most western countries ate with the traditional (to us) fork and spoon, the eastern countries had a mix of chopsticks, refined silverware, or in Scotland's case just bare hands. It was a sight to behold.
The food was delicious. I hurried to grab one of China's steamed buns along with smoked herring from Denmark and dolmades from Greece. Once those were gone, I sampled a few dishes from the South American countries, but stayed mostly to the more familiar North American cuisine. At the beginning of the meal I finally gathered the nerve to peek up at Prussia and caught his concerned look. I cursed inwardly for making him worry, but gave him a reassuring smile on the outside. After all it wasn't his fault I was undesirable. If I wasn't so shy I probably would have raised my voice to talk to him, but even though I knew that chances of anyone hearing or even caring about what I talked about were small, I still kept my mouth shut. Besides, the small glances and nods of acknowledgement that we exchanged during the rest of the meal were enough.
"I found the wishbone!" America suddenly shouted and that got my attention. I looked over and saw him proudly holding up the forked bone of the turkey. Now, I'm not a superstitious person, but I'm all for tradition and doing things just because. Or at least that's what I told myself when America asked who wanted the honors of breaking it with him and I jumped at the chance.
"I do!" I yelled with all my might, knowing that it might not even register amongst the crowd, but for some reason or other he actually heard me.
"Alright bro! Come on down!" the blonde yelled and I nearly skipped down to him, my wish already in mind if I won.
"Ready?" he asked as he told hold of one end and I took the other. I nodded and then together we pulled the forked bone apart. America's eyes were on the bone between our fingers, but mine were closed tight in anticipation trying to infuse my will into the stationary object. It was only a few seconds later, but it felt like much longer when I felt the bone finally break. There was a groan and slowly I opened one of my eyes before both shot open in surprise. In my hand was the longer of the two halves!
"Congrats! So whatcha wish for?" he asked me. I resisted the urge to glance over at the albino that captured my interest and instead busied myself with securing the bone in my hoodie pocket.
"If I tell you then it won't come true," I told him cheekily and he laughed.
"True!" he said and we parted ways returning to our seats.
Later on, the loud bustling atmosphere became more subdued as everyone started to be filled to the brim with food. Plates were cleared and dishes were wrapped up for later consumption. Everyone thanked America for hosting us at his home, and slowly trickled out of the dinning room. Some returning to the living room to watch TV still stuck in a post meal haze, others ready to return home for the night.
I myself wondered back to the hallway with the abstract paintings wanting a break from all the noise and maybe...just maybe wanting to talk more with Prussia. I rubbed the bone in my pocket and sighed. I wasn't an idiot, I knew very well that I had a slight(ly huge) crush on the albino man. Unfortunately, I also knew that asking for more than friendship was out of the question, so my wish was simple. I wanted the man as a close friend. That's all I could ask for.
"Hey Vögelchen," a voice said lowly breaking me from my thoughts and I jumped letting out a small 'eep'. I then blushed realizing that I proved his nickname right. He laughed but didn't tease me further, instead he fixed me with that same boyish smile from before. I swallowed loudly before responding.
"H-hi Prussia," I said in an equally soft almost nervous voice before tilting my head. "Wait, why are were being quiet?"
"No reason," he shrugged stepping closer to me and I felt frozen in his presence. Not in fear, oh no, but something equally dangerous. I tried to shake off the feeling and start a conversation.
"How did you like the meal?"
"It was interesting to say the least. I tried so many foods. Definitely one of my favorites are those steamed buns China brought."
"Oh Maple, yes," I moaned unconsciously, too caught up in remembrance of those heavenly treats that I didn't see the hungry look that flashed through the other's eyes. "Those are my favorites too!" I whispered excitedly feeling like we were sharing secrets.
"Uh..yes...well..yeah," he scratched the back of his head and looked everywhere but at my face. That made me frown. Did I do something wrong? Before I had a chance to ask him I heard a snort come from his direction and I turned to find him staring above my head with an amused expression.
"Wh-what?" I squeaked, suddenly feeling self conscious. Was my hair a mess? Could he tell I used woman's shampoo? Mon Dieu, what if a stray piece of food found its way into my hair?!
"Look," he said, tilting his chin in an effort to make me look up. Slowly and with just a bit of apprehension I did, and couldn't help the way my jaw dropped slightly. Above me…above us was a mistletoe. Well, that shouldn't be there yet. Just as slowly I returned my gaze to my companion and saw his questioning gaze on me.
Did it suddenly get a few degrees warmer?
"Well?" He murmured because with us standing so closely (when had that happened?) there really wasn't a reason to yell, but Maple if that didn't mean I could feel his breath ghost over my suddenly dry lips. I licked them unconsciously and watched as his eyes darted down to follow the motion before they ventured back up. It was then that I could see just how wide his pupils were as he stared into my eyes with one eyebrow arched, waiting for an answer.
"Um…I…uh…it's not Christmas!" I blurted unnecessarily not even answering his question. Seriously, my mouth was not connected to my brain at all. Prussia chuckled lowly and once again I got to feel his breath glide across my lower face. Well, that didn't help my already shorted out brain one bit. "S-some Americans like to d-decorate for Christmas really early," I specified. Well at least it was a coherent sentence. "So..uh..that technically shouldn't…we can't...I mean it doesn't...it wouldn't be... v-valid?" Please stop talking, my brain tried to tell my mouth but to no avail. A thought a had just occurred to me and it made my brain clear up slightly.
"Wait, you already...a-at the table...you said you...found someone," I finished lamely.
"I did," Prussia said unashamed as he slid his arms around my thin waist. I stared wide eyed at him in shock.
"Th-then why are you doing this?!" I cried out, frustrated at the turn of events and trying to distance myself from him. I-if he already had someone in mind then why was I even needed?
"Why do you think?" he asked tightening his grip and not letting me escape.
"I..I don't know!" I whined, so confused at what was going on around me.
"Oh Vögelchen," he murmured. "My sweet naïve awesome Vögelchen," he stressed the word awesome and my breath hitched in my throat in realization. "Do you get it now?"
"I th-think so...you mean me, right?" I looked deep into his eyes for the truth. "You found...me?" I asked in a whisper, my tone borderline begging.
"Ja, you," he confessed with a smile. My heart flooded with such warmth and happiness I was sure there was a large dopey smile on my face, but I didn't care. I had never dared dreamed that someone would fine me interesting enough to want to hang around for a relationship, and now...I watched as he glanced above us once more, asking silently for permission. And yet I hesitated, my eyes jumping nervously from the mistletoe above to his lips and then back to his eyes.
"Is that a no?" He asked picking up on my hesitation and gazing down at me with...oh no, Maple, no not those puppy dog eyes.
"N-no.." I stuttered though not completely sure.
"No?" He asked once more, his lips slanted over mine only centimeters apart sending delicious shivers down my spine and I wondered why was I stalling.
"Yes," I exhaled, my tone not bothering hiding the want that suddenly over took me. It more of a sound than a word, but with the close proximity he heard me clearly and closed the already thin gap between our lips.
I don't know what I was expecting, but his lips softly meeting mine in a chaste kiss was not it. It was definitely nice, but his previous behavior eluded to a more passionate kiss with more teeth than anything else. Not that I was complaining. No, not one bit…okay maybe a little bit.
When he made to pull away, in a show of strength I barely used outside the hockey rink I clutched tightly to the scarf around his neck and brought his lips back to mine. From then on it was nothing but tongues battling for dominance. The room soon filled with the sounds of our (okay my) moans and lips smacking against one I got lost in the sensations of my body pressing into his, seeking that warmth that only another body can provide. I honestly couldn't tell you how long the kiss lasted, but it was only when the need for breath became too great that we finally parted.
Through heavy eyes and fogged up glasses, I eyed the dissolved nation. There was a soft glow behind his half lidded orbs, white hair faced every direction courtesy of yours truly running my fingers through his hair repeatedly, and lips..oh Maple his lips were swollen and red from our little make out session. It made me wonder what my own looked like.
"Vögelchen..." he groaned against my lips and I let out a undignified whine at the heat that invaded my body when hearing the rough spoken German. He paused and I felt his body shiver against mine. Good, I wasn't the only one affected by the other's sounds. "Vögelchen," he started again softly nuzzling the side of my neck with his nose. "I was wondering..." he trailed off and took a deep breath. "I was wondering if you would want to be awesome with me?" His hands trailed up and down my arms slowly, but I couldn't tell if the goose bumps were from his actions or his words. Just to be sure...
"Meaning?" I prompted. Oh sue me, I needed to know if he was asking what I thought he was. There was a sigh before he leaned back, however his eyes were everywhere but looking into mine.
"Meaning, do you want to date me?" he said without his signature smirk. Instead a small, almost pensive smile graced his features as he glanced up at me with his head ducked down.
I stared at this man who I've known for less than 5 hours. A man who noticed me when no one else did, remembered my name without me having to remind him, complemented me on things no one ever has…and kissed me like he didn't want to stop. I couldn't help the smile tugging at my lips in return.
"Yes, I would like that very much," I said before pulling him back in for more of his addicting taste. We stood there for who knows how long just sharing soft slow kisses when loud voices broke our tranquil bubble.
"Oh and then when Spain said he was most thankful for you, that was so romantic," Italy gushed on his way to the foyer. We peeked our heads around the corner and saw a small group of countries tugging on their jackets and preparing to leave.
"Stuff it Feliciano." Romano said but the use of his brother's human name told how serious he really was. That and the tell all sign of a blush threatening to overrun his face. He tried to hide it by snuggling deep into his scarf.
"Oh hon hon hon, I'm sure Germany could help with that!" France teased, which riled the southern Italian up even more.
"Stay away from mi fratello, potato bastard!" he shouted grabbing hold of Italy protectively.
"But Lovi-"
"But no," the other interjected. "He's going to corrupt you and have you watch filthy dungeon porn and then he'll make you sit on his puny-"
"Oh Lovi," Italy laughed cutely. "We've already done that."
There was a distict pause before...
"WHAT?! Y-you potato bastard! I'll kill you!"
From the sidelines we watched as the feisty little Romano tried to strangle the tall muscle bound German with his scarf. I hid my chuckles behind my hand, but Prussia outright laughed at his brother's predicament. I shushed him, but couldn't help the smile on my face. When he turned back towards me he still had a twinkle in his eyes that made my heart skip a beat and I leaned up to continue where we left off. Absentmindedly, my hand pat the broken wishbone in my pocket, happy and thankful that my wish came true.
And scene!
Well what do you think Chick-a-dees? Do I have what it takes to put back on the Truthsayer of Fanfiction crown? I sure do hope so. I almost forgot just how fun writing could be. A chance to let loose and be creative!
Review please. Otherwise how else will I know if I suck or not