Sup, Canadaslighter here. This is going to be my first multi chapter story I've written, and I'm still working out the kinks :/ But I hope you guys enjoy the messy relationship of Prussia and Canada, my babies :D
Disclaimer: I don't own Hetalia. Unfortunately XD
"Fucking hell Franny you got part of the Americas!" Gilbert stared down at the tiny boy, holding tightly onto the navy coat of his Papa, who was currently scowling at the man standing in his dining room.
"Language, mon ami. Mattieu don't repeat what Gilbert just said, okay?" The child nodded, just staring up at the albino in a way that made him uncomfortable. That was the way the afternoon progressed, France making civil conversation while Mattieu watched silently. Gilbert shuffled awkwardly, trying to not meet the new nation's eyes.
It was even worse when Francis left to fetch more wine, and milk for Mattieu. The kid wouldn't speak, wouldn't even move, as though he were terrified- that was it. He'd probably never seen an albino before. Gil remembered the times when his own people had beat him for just that fact, screaming words about demons. It was understandable.
While the older nation was wrapped in his own thoughts, Mattieu took a steadying breath, hands tightening into fists as he slowly took a step forward. One hand rested on the table cloth, the thin fabric a semblance of support. Red eyes focused on what he was doing but he kept moving until he was right in front of the man.
In the language he was still struggling to comprehend, he spoke.
"E-excuse me…you have a bird on your head."
Gilbert blinked.
"Ja, I do. It's Gilbert."
"Can- can I pet him?" The child's voice was so quiet, like a whisper, and his huge lilac eyes downcast.
The kid wasn't afraid him. He was just too scared to ask to touch Gilbird. The tension in his body vanished, his posture relaxing as he took in the nervous child, and he couldn't help but laugh in relief.
Mattieu jumped slightly, taking a step back but then the tiny yellow bird was presented to him. He smiled as he rubbed the bird, receiving a chirp in response.
And holy shit, did that child have a smile. It started slowly, but spread from ear to ear, rosebud lips opening to reveal small white teeth. My god, it was perfect, thought Gil as he took his turn to stare. He couldn't help it, the boy was so innocent. His land hadn't had the centuries of warfare that had ravaged Europe, he hadn't had worry about starting an empire, and he was still just the land for his people. He had no scars. And he was going to stay that way, if Gilbert had his way.
He watched Gilbird fly up into the golden curls, gaining a laugh from Mattieu, as the boy looked up in wonder. Gil grinned, remembering when West was that carefree.
"He's my best friend. He's been with me for, fu-god knows how long."
"How did you meet?" Mattieu's voice was more confident, his body relaxed and playful. He was looking at Gilbert, the wonder now focused on the idea of a story. He hesitantly reached up to the older man.
Gilbert picked him up and settled him in his lap, starting to tell his stories. From the first meeting with Gilbird, to his wars and even to experiences with Hungary (slightly…edited of course). He kept talking until Francis came back, hands full with a tray of treats and eyes wide at the sight of his shy son in the lap of his friend.
"I see you two got on well, non?" His tone was slightly sharp, but that was to be understood. Colonies were precious commodities, but Prussia didn't want to steal this boy away. He just wanted him to be happy. He locked eyes with his friend and shook his head slightly, a smile still on his face. The other man tilted his own head, biting his lip in slight worry yet he was happy. He knew Prussia would help him to protect his little Canada.
"Gil is interesting, Papa!" The high pitched voice broke the silent conversation as both males turned to the small child, with his perfect grin on his angelic face.
"He is, isn't he, mon cher."