There must be something wrong with me.

...Or so thought the German as he found his stoic, normally calm heart skip a beat when he heard a familiar, quiet voice. He memorized the sound of the voice, he recognized the voice, he knew the person behind the voice. He knew him, alright. Unfortunately he knew the voice, and he felt a sort of alien feeling towards it, like fondness. A type of emotion he hasn't felt since he was a child. What could cause such an emotion within him?

"Germany-san, I came to ask you if we could train on Thursday instead of Wednesday. I have meetings all day discussing general politics and relations with China, and a requirement of at least six hours of sleep," Japan asked. "But if it isn't okay then I shall have to reschedule..."

Poor Japan. Due to his short stature he had to look up into the intimidating German's eyes, and be in his close proximity because of his quiet voice. It wasn't like Japan didn't express the ability to yell (when Italy managed to spill coffee all over his favorite manga), but he disliked yelling because of its 'aggressiveness'. And while Germany would love to be able to say the same, he couldn't. Yelling was crucial to train soldiers and his two friends, so he couldn't stay away from it entirely. It was one of the things Germany was fond of about Japan. Especially fond of, even.

"Of course. I'll just have Italy to train then."

"Yes. It shouldn't be hard..."

Both of them inwardly cringed. Germany needed Japan to help keep Italy engaged and interested in training (it wasn't that Italy was ditsy or anything, it's just that he had a near-constant need for social interaction), and Japan needed Germany to help keep him fit and competent against any enemy that might come his way. It also provided insight on how each of them naturally reacted in critical situations, which helped them all know each other better.

And this is what united them. While all three were different in their own ways, they all clicked, and somehow, someway, got along and tolerated each other day to day. It does take some getting used to, but oh well. Can't be helped.

"I...guess I shall be going. Call me if you need my help for anything, Germany-san," Japan said. Germany cleared his throat and looked back down at Japan.

"Of course. I will see you tomorrow for drills and training?"

"Hai."

The quiet shut of the door barely reached Germany's ears. It's refreshing to see how polite Japan could be, even to someone who he's been friends with for who knows how long. Germany himself was formal, but only to a point. And Italy defied all normal definitions of how to treat someone while in different stages of friendship, preferring to skip over to hugs and physical contact instead of handshakes and nods. This was also where Germany and Japan had a mutual understanding.

Which is another reason why Germany thoroughly enjoyed Japan's presence, and lately the temptation to have some time to get to know Japan better face to face was growing everyday. But what was this emotion he was feeling? Fondness? A nice sense of friendship? Both? Something...

Something more?

Stop right there, he decided. Dangerous territory now... Dangerous thought undoubtedly lead to dangerous actions, and dangerous actions lead to dangerous consequences...

The sound of the door opening was barely audible, but it reached Germany's ears. Quiet footsteps were also heard against the burgundy carpeted floor. Was it Japan again? Was he coming back? Maybe Germany should ask him to maybe go out with him sometime... Not like anything more than friends would do! Yeah. Coffee and conversation. It's not like Japan would agree to anything more.

"Germany? Germany? I came to ask you something-"

"Would you like to go out with me to a caf- Oh, Italy, nevermind..."

If it wasn't awkward already, it was now. Italy stared at him with a blank expression on his face, mouth open and interrrupted mid-sentence. His curl seemed to twitch a little. His eyes had gotten wider, and he suddenly given Germany a look he had never seen before; a look of 'I know something you don't know'. And why was Germany unnerved by that look? Had he thought it was meant for him? Oh no, how could he explain that it was meant for someone else... And why was he still looking at him like that? Why is his face so smug? Why is he smiling so wide?

"Oh...Germany has a crush!" Italy sang, pitching his voice a little higher. Germany automatically lifted a hand to his face to cover the unfortunate expression of despair he had. Oh no, how am I going to get out of this one, how am I going to convince him otherwise, how am I going to do this... Hopefully he won't say anything stupid to make me lose my nerve.

"No, Italy, it's not what you think, it's just that I was meaning to ask them if they could possibly meet and discuss political matters with me tomorrow, so I can get to know them over tea or coffee!" Germany hurriedly responded. Italy's brows knitted together; they rose a mile high before settling once more back into his cheeky grin. There was no convincing the Italian otherwise, apparently, and Germany couldn't do a thing about it. Does he know who he's talking about? Does he know who makes Germany's heart have palpitations and makes him dream about the voice? Does he know the stuggl-

"Do you know my big brother is the country of France? And I'm Italian! I am experienced in the art of amore, so I would be one of the best people to ask about love! Trust me Germany trust me! Tell me who it is and I'll make sure you will be able to win their hearts!" He sang, flitting about and around the room. Maybe Italy would be a good person to talk to about love, all he needed was just a little, tiny piece of advice...

"Hey Italy...So if this person doesn't really involve themselves in those matters, would they still accept my offer of a 'friendly' outing to the cafe or other type of place?" The nervous German asked, clasping his fingers together to try and ease off this foreign feeling he's experiencing.

Italy's ecstatic expression turned into a frown; he crossed his arms, appearing deep in thought. Germany hoped he worded it right, and gave away no indication that it was Japan, or anybody that Italy could possibly think of. Italy remained in his position, staring into the blank white wall behind Germany. It was funny how so abruptly the mood can change from the sound of silence.

Eventually, Germany leaned against his heavy mahogany desk. The ticking of the grandfather clock only increased the rate of which different thoughts and uncertainties flowed into his head. Italy didn't even appear to blink. The silence was so unsettling that it was it was stifling. And while Germany could handle the silence (it was the only source of solace against a certain Italian's ramblings), it was so unusual to receive it while in the presence of Italy. Fearing that the Italian was playing tricks on him, he stepped across the wooden floor to open the door and exit, when a single finger stopped him.

"No...Don't leave. I think I know who you're talking about!" Italy exclaimed. He jumped backwards and started pacing. Now, things went from odd to pretty downright weird.

'I swear, Italy can be so moody sometimes...' Germany thought, examining the sudden change. So finally, he could receive sound advice from him, and maybe afterwards place a call to a certain Asian. However, he was wondering if Italy came to the right conclusion. Would he judge him for it?

"You will need to call 'them' and make it clear that you want to schedule a date with them. A date. None of that 'only friends stuff! Take them by the hand, sweep them off their feet, and take them out to a place that would put the finest restaurants to a downright shame! Take them to a secluded place, and confess your eternal, undying love- we countries seem to be able to make that promise come true..." He faded off, his mouth suddenly closing. The German across from him pondered on the new information. It all sounds like something France would do...Nothing that Germany would ever be able to accomplish. Germany just didn't have the nerve to take Japan, of anyone that he could have wanted to take out, to a quiet area of fine dining and nice scenery, personally put together by Germany himself. He didn't have the nerve to take Japan's hand and guide him to the chosen place, only to make nice conversation and confess that the Asian man has been making Germany rethink everything, and not in a bad way. That kind of thing was not his specialty; it never was. "That's nice, but I can never do that, Italy. I'm sorry. Just forget that I even asked-"

"Germany! Don't you dare walk away from me! It's meant to be, I know it! Only if you're truly in love would you be willing to put off the opportunity to grab the heart of your love and let it go so willingly...You're afraid of getting rejected, aren't you?" Italy asked, tilting his head. Germany's head stopped all of its processes and unwillingly shook his head, looking away to instead focus his ashamed stare to the floor. Maybe he could burn it by only his stare. Wouldn't that be nice...

"Silly Germany! You won't be rejected! Just follow your heart or win them over with cheesy pick up lines! Have faith in yourself! What's the worst they could do?"

Germany did give this another thought. Obviously, the worst thing Japan could do is reject him, that is top priority. But other than that...He doubted Japan would resort to violence as a way to say no; and while his katana did give Germany second thoughts, it would just be too out of character for Japan to do that. What else could he do? It would only be awkward for a while during training, but they had to suck it up and get through it. And Italy may or may not piece the pieces together, but it wouldn't matter by then. Germany would deal with that when the time comes.

Therefore, there may be a slight chance...

A slight, slight chance of the unlikely becoming reality.

"I'll go now and make pasta for fratello- think of what I said, yes?" Italy reminded, opening the door and skipping out. Now, Germany was left alone with only his thoughts to keep him company. Let's see... It was barely noon now, so he had the rest of the day to plan it if he wanted too... He really didn't have to go through with the plan; it wasn't like there was any sort of pressure for him to put his 'plan' to action anytime soon. Japan might want to rest. Even if they were in Italy, Japan still wanted to enjoy some solitary time of tea and reading those books full of drawings and words, or 'manga' as he called them. So Germany could postpone this till next weekend, (like a coward) or set everything up for an absolutely perfect evening. Today.

If he was going to get started, he needed to get to it right this minute.

"I would like those chrysanthemums in the beautiful vase on that second shelf," Germany confirmed, telling the nice receptionist when she asked what he needed. Abruptly she pointed to them, and gave him a bizarre glance.

"You want those? Are you sure?"She asked again. Her expression remained utterly confused. Obviously, she knew he was not Italian, or from here from a matter of fact, but still...

"Yes, is something wrong with them? I'll pay extra for them, I need them tonight, to give to a special someone," Germany murmured, looking everywhere except at the short, Italian lady on the other side of the counter. His slightly stuffy clothing he was wearing was suffocating him, or maybe it was just his nervousness. A light blue button-up shirt with simple khaki pants seemed like an appropriate choice at the time. But for some reason, even though the customary clothing he usually wore was heavier, he still absolutely melted in the lighter clothing he was wearing now.

Unfortunately, he was also starting to second-guess himself; was this a good idea? He researched that chrysanthemums were the so called 'unofficial' national flower of Japan, since they have long been used as a symbol of the Japanese Imperial Family. So, this would be a thoughtful gift right? 'I have no experience picking flowers,' Germany impatiently thought. Chrysanthemums were the only flowers that had much of an important significance to the country of Japan and were available in Italy at the same time. So, in the end these flowers were the only choice.

The lady, once hearing his words, sprung up with the flowers and rushed over. They were set on the counter and she made a -was it a cross?- shape with her hands and fumbled with the money that the German had given her. The change clattered over the counter top, and Germany was startled.

"Are you okay, miss? Do you need something?" He asked, starting to worry that maybe he had offended her somehow. She only looked at him with an expression of pity and grabbed one of his hands. He let it all happen, knowing this situation was bizarre and starting to wonder if this is what Italians did every time they gave away flowers. Were they always this sad to see them go? How do Italians function in their daily life? 'I need to ask Italy about this after this is all over...'

"Oh, you poor thing. Ay Madonna, I am so sorry, I'll give you discount, it will only be twenty dollars. Go, go, go give it to them. Make it special," She simply said, and released his hand. Germany was left to gather up the leftover money she had not excepted, and wordlessly left the small flower shop with his big bouquet of chrysanthemums in a hurry. The cheerful 'ding' sounded off behind him as he walked the streets of Italy, gazing at the ordinary pedestrians crossing by. However, something seemed to have happened. A person he was walking by saw him and automatically stopped, saying something in Italian that Germany didn't understand. Germany only smiled, and curtly nodded. He just continued to walk that much faster.

What was it with people staring at him? Was there something on his face? Have they never seen a German before? 'Another thing to ask Italy about...'

Finally, after he managed to survive the stares given to him along the way, he made it to the hotel room he thought to be Japan's. Was he sure? Was he ready to do this?

Stick with the plan, soldier, stick with the plan.

Even if it kills you.

One, two, three knocks later and his palms were sweaty. His heart was racing, and he was beginning to regret everything. Couldn't he have waited until next weekend or something? Did it really have to be today? Did he really have to listen to Italy and do this? 'Because right now, I feel really absurd. This absolutely could- no, it should have waited. Now I'll be caught outside his door with a big bouquet full of chrysanthemums, and I won't know what to do.'

"Germany-san? Excuse me for asking, but why are you here? You did not call me beforehand- what is this? Chrysanthemums? Who are those for, if I may ask?"

Japan had to step to the side of his door to see Germany, considering the flowers obscured his vision of him. Germany struggled to move the big bouquet to the side to make it easier, but his attempt failed and only made it seem a little more uncomfortable. The vase seemed to slip through his hands more frequently now, and he had to readjust his grip on it from time to time. A few seconds passed.

Finally, Germany remembered that he had to respond. Silently, he mentally cursed at himself for the awkward pause.

"I...heard that your unofficial national flower is the Chrysanthemum. Sorry they are not Sakura blossoms, but they did not have them..." Germany answered, using two fingers obscured by the vase to cross them and hope for the best. America had taught him that trick, and he hoped that if it usually worked for America, it would work for him. It was an odd way to wish for luck. But if it worked, who cared?

Japan's expression seemed even more confused. For a moment, Germany decided to come up with an elaborate lie. Maybe 'In my country, this is only a friendly gesture of pure friendship that we Germans give each other, it happens very secretly and often without warning' or also 'I'm not really confused about my feelings towards you, you are purely a friend to me and I'll forget about this tomorrow'. But even with those not-at-all carefully thought-out lies, it was not going to easily fool his Asian friend. So, there was a problem. If he couldn't come up with a suitable lie or explanation, how would Japan react to this? Would he come to the right conclusion... That Germany's feelings were no longer as pure as friendship would allow?

"Germany... I am grateful for your gift; However, I do not have a gift of my own to give you, so I am afraid I cannot except this," Japan said, looking up at Germany with a a regretful look on his face. Germany scrambled in his head to find a way to get him to receive the flowers, but none of them were good ones. They all made Germany have to reveal his true intentions behind the flowers. 'I guess I should do it, and get it over with.'

"That is not necessary, it is my way of asking you to go with me on date of sorts, and these flowers were supposed to help convince you. Is it working? You do not have to reciprocate, these flowers are only for you. Don't worry about it," Germany replied, in what he hoped was in a reassuring voice.

"But really, I have to give you something back, it is only customary for me to give someone a gift after they so thoughtfully have given me something. As I had said, I do not have anything worthy enough to give you, other than some of my own clothes or various food I have in my kitchen. Therefore, I repeat, I cannot accept this... Unless..."

Japan faded off with a foreign expression on his face, and Germany was left to wait and see what was going to happen next. 'How can I get Japan to accept these flowers, these same flowers that have caused me so much trouble, he must accept them... We can split them, I guess.'

"If I accept these flowers, I will have a guilty conscience, so if you would maybe... take half of them home with you? They certainly are beautiful, and it is the only way I can think of to accept these flowers and retain my good conscience. Germany-san, would you please accept half of these flowers in return?"

"Yes, that does sound like a nice compromise. Very well then, I shall accept these flowers. But you did not answer my question, Japan," Germany said, nervously clearing his throat. He did not want to mess this up.

"Will you go on a date with me, Kiku? I have been questioning my feelings for you for a while, and I couldn't think of any other way besides this to decide if whether or not I should continue pursuing these feelings. If you don't feel the same, that's fine...I just need to know."

It was silent for a moment or two. Germany stared hard into Japan's deep brown eyes, standing his ground. If he was met with rejection, then so be it. If he was successful, then kudos to him. What happens will happen...What matters is that Germany tried, and conquered his fear. All that he said was the truth, after all. He really held feelings for Japan, and while he himself couldn't decipher these same feelings, he sure could try and follow his instincts. And right now, everything was just right.

"I...Yes. Yes. Of course I will go on a...date, with you. Please, accept this gift from me."

And with that, Japan took half of the amount of chrysanthemums and presented them to the tall German, subtly blushing as he did so. The chrysanthemums held a sort of significance to both of them. That knowledge scared them both also. But nevertheless, barely hesitating, Germany took the flowers and handed Japan the beautifully decorated vase with the rest of the remaining flowers.

"Please, call me Ludwig."

"Wow, this scenery is beautiful, you shouldn't have," Japan observed, looking around at the candle-lit picnic table set out in front of him, simple, yet elegant. How Ludwig managed to obtain that perfect balance, he didn't know. His heart beat a little faster than normal, and he didn't know what had come over him. He was almost certain his sugar levels were in check, because he did take care to watch his diet. There was nothing else he could blame for his elevated heart rate, so he hurriedly sat down hoping it would pass.

"Well, I tried. The land of Italy is a great provider for all things romance, so I didn't need to do much looking. This spot looked beautiful during the day, but I didn't think it would look this amazing in the evening. The stars are even out," Germany said, opening up the picnic basket and making fast work of taking out the food and everything he deemed necessary, like napkins and silverware. Fine china plates were set out on the beige tablecloth. The reflected the lamp lights around them.

"Italy would love that compliment if he could hear you now," Japan said, laughing a little. Germany promptly looked away, trying to focus on the task of put out the silverware in a specific manner atop the decorated napkins. "I didn't invite him for that same reason," He joked back, missing the small smile sent his way.

"If I'd have known it would have been a little windy, I would have brought other clothes," Japan said, noticing the way the vibrant, green grass beneath them moved, swaying lightly. Japan had chosen to wear a yukata with a his comfortable blue robe over it. It wasn't like he didn't own any 'casual' clothes for Italy, he just preferred to be comfortable. It was that, and the other fact that he did not realize he would be invited by none other than Germany out on a 'romantic' evening. The German didn't mind. Not even the stares of the local Italian community didn't unnerve him now. No, Germany now contained what he deemed 'nerves of steel' for getting Japan to go on a date with him. Nothing could ruin this now.

"I hope you enjoy this, it was a hassle to find," Germany remarked, taking out a big container. He opened it, and faint steam wafted out of it, signaling it has kept its warmth of the food. Japan was surprised to see him setting down a plate of what looked like to be various seafood, like shrimp and fish, on top of white rice. The Asian man's eyes lit up, and looked at Germany gratefulness evident in them.

"Chirashi sushi! How did you know? This is so thoughtful, thank you so much Ger- I mean, Ludwig-san," Japan quietly murmured, seeming embarrassed at his slip-up.

"No problem; I just want you to enjoy it," Germany responded, once again avoiding the other man's gaze. 'Why is this so uncomfortable for me? After everything, I still feel odd, what am I doing wrong?'

Before Germany himself sat down, he took out another container and revealed a plate with seafood and wurst with vegetables mixed in. Both of the meals smelled absolutely delectable. The stars were smiling down, the moon was big and bright, and the lamplight provided great lighting. They both enjoyed their meals with eagerness. Unsurprisingly, there was no real conversation happening. Just small talk and such. Until Japan noticed a rectangular wooden box propped up against the German's chair.

"Excuse me, but I am very curious; what is in that box by your seat?" Japan asked, looking towards the mysterious box. Germany quickly looked down at the box and sprung up from his wooden chair, seemingly fussing about something.

"That was our drinks! I apologize, I'll only be a moment... Found it!" He said, once again reaching in the picnic basket and taking out another box. After fumbling a bit, he pulled out two wine glasses. Japan suddenly realized what it was. Wine. He looked at the box once again and blushed, hoping the light wouldn't reveal his embarrassment. Japan would not lie; he was an old nation. He had tasted wine before (courtesy of America trying to be classy against Britain). But never had he seen it in such an ornate box, with spiraling, intricate patterns. He was amazed, to say the least. Hmm... Would Germany allow him to keep the box?

Germany fumbled with the box, and opened the simple brass clasp. In the light, it was very clearly a wine bottle, and a fancy one at that. Even the cork seemed to ooze luxury. Cursive lettering decorated the label on the bottle. It was a black, opaque bottle.

"Do not be fooled by the outside; this is red wine. Do you like red wine? I wasn't sure but I had a feeling, was I wrong?" Germany hurriedly asked, looking towards Japan for his reaction. Japan automatically nodded and rushed to reply.

"Yes, I do like the taste. America made sure I tried it when I first began visiting him. I haven't been over in a while, but I don't usually drink alcohol anyways."

"Good, I was worried you wouldn't like it. I sure hope it tastes nice; I bought what a local told me was 'best quality'. The box is perhaps as fancy as the bottle, though," Germany responded. After the wine was poured, they resumed eating their delicious dinner. The moon shone down on the scene, drowned out by the equally beautiful soft light of the park lamps and the candles on the table. Every once in a while, one of them would steal glances at the other when they thought they weren't looking, and after the other looked away the process would repeat. It was sweet, in a way. Both of them foreign to love, in a somewhat foreign country, trying to understand each other over a simple candlelit dinner. The chrysanthemums lay in between them, like a small barrier.

Neither of them kept track of time. It wasn't as if the stars kept track of it either; they just shone brilliantly on.

Eventually, they both finished their food. Japan modestly left some left on his plate, while Germany devoured everything on his. And in the end, it was quite comical for Japan to point out the small piece of fish that managed to get stuck to Germany's left cheek. It was just sad that the nice napkin had to be used in the process.

Germany cleared his throat, gaining the attention of the man sitting in front of him. "I... I propose a toast. A toast to conquering my fear, and for being able to bring you here. I do not regret it one bit."

"Neither do I. By the way, I loved the chrysanthemums; I will make sure to keep them in good health when I return to my hotel. A toast," Japan agreed. A sophisticated 'clink' was heard, and they both sipped once again at their glasses. Thinking back to what had occurred earlier, Germany smiled to himself. What on earth possessed him to do this? To gather the courage to arrange this all? What possessed him to accomplish this feat of which he was sure he'd never arrange for anyone in his life? Then again, if someone were to ask him when his feelings for his ally started, he honestly couldn't provided an exact answer. He liked the way Japan was constantly quiet, until you talked about something he was passionate about. He was fond of the almost constant politeness that extended even to his closest friends, and he missed the presence of the one who sensed everyone's. Japan may have the ability to sense the mood and 'refrain from speaking', so it surprised Germany that Japan didn't see this coming sooner.

'I'm in love with him.'

"Ludwig-san! What is wrong? Are you okay?" Japan exclaimed, when Germany choked mid-sip. Germany struggled to process that thought in his head. That thought was certainly a... Possibility...an impossible one, at the very least. Right?

"No, no, I'm fine, just... fine."

"Okay... I will have to leave in a little bit, but it was nice to go out and spend some time with you. Everything was absolutely delicious! Thank you, I shall have to repay you sometime," The Asian man said, standing up and gathering some of the contents on the table into the big picnic basket. Germany cleared the rest of the table, and within a matter of minutes, there was hardly a sign on the ground or on the table that they were even there. After all, the German liked to keep things nice and neat, just like Japan. Another reason why they were so compatible.

"Okay, ready to go?" Germany asked, offering an arm to Japan. With absolutely no hesitation whatsoever, he stepped forward and took it. With his other arm, Germany carried the basket with ease. Japan, upon request, was the one who carried the box. The streets of Italy were very lively at night; ordinary couples and people passing by them, and stores still open despite the late hour. The stars still refused to give up on their stubborn light, but it was more muted now. Germany thought of how strange they both must look. On the outside, there was an intimidation German with a shorter, more approachable Asian, walking with a picnic basket and the other carrying an expensive wine case.

But nevertheless, they were (whether they knew it or not) in love, and it didn't take a foreigner to see that.

"So...Ludwig-kun, what are we now?" Japan slowly asked. His brown eyes looked towards Germany's icy blue ones. What was their relationship now, anyways? It did not escape Germany's notice of the subtle name change, but he didn't make any comment about it. He just felt even more warmer than usual. 'What are we, really? Are we...dating now? Hah, countries dating. How...strange. But not impossible.'

"I don't know. I really, really don't know. I like everything about you, Kiku, but if you are not ready for a relationship of any sort, you don't have to agree to be my partner. I'm content on waiting...if you want to," Germany said. He did his best to keep his voice level and steady. He did not need Japan to know how nervous he is. If Japan disagrees, it's not like the end of the world, but...Germany wasn't sure if he would be able to look the Asian man in the eyes for a while. Which is a risk he should have thought of beforehand.

Japan didn't say anything for a few minutes. Germany didn't pressure him, and only continued walking along the sidewalks to the hotel in silence. Meanwhile, the other was holding his own personal, private monologue in his head. All the way up to the hotel door did they still stay in silence. That is when Germany realized Japan's choice. There was no feelings of sadness, he just kept his composure even and steady. But even if Japan didn't accept his feelings, it was okay. It wouldn't change how Germany felt about him. And when he thought about it, he realized nothing would.

'This is how I know something is wrong with me.'

"Okay, we're here. Thank you for attending, and don't feel obligated to repay me in any way. If that is how you truly feel, I shall respect that, I underst-"

"So, Germany, how was your date with Japan last night?"

"It was wonderfu- HOW ON EARTH DID YOU FIND OUT?" Germany yelled, spitting out his coffee. From across the meeting table, Italy shrugged and only winked at him. That strange Italian...

"Let's just say I waited all night in the lobby. Good choice on the wine; that was the finest that had in the whole vineyard!" Italy praised. He was just casually sipping at his expresso. As if practically stalking his friends was perfectly normal on a day to day basis. 'Remind me again; why is this my only other ally besides Japan? Please, refresh my memory.'

"Ja, I heard all about it from Italy. Never knew you had it in you, West! Now I know my brother isn't a big chicken!"

'Damn you Italy...Telling my brother, of all people! Why?'

"It was wonderful last night. I believe I had received chrysanthemums in a beautiful vase, along with a box that was used for the storage of a singular wine bottle. I had a great time. Ludwig-kun does have a heart, after all," Japan said, taking a seat next to Germany. Prussia wriggled his eyebrows suggestively, and Germany wanted to wipe that smug smirk off of his brother's face. But Japan was sitting next to him, and losing his calm wasn't a good idea. He'll just have to tolerate the teasing for however long it lasts.

"Oui, I heard you put the moves on Japan last night, is this true German?"

"Yeah, I heard that you asked out my best bro, Japan! Nice, dude!"

"Japan! You could do so much better aru...but you chose him? I never thought I'd see the day...You're...all grown up," China said, both happy that Japan had found someone, but also sad it wasn't someone that he would have thought of. Of everyone in the world he could have had, he chose that German...Oh well. As long as they were happy. One by one, the nations trickled into the big meeting room, with the bickering Englishman and Frenchman, the intimidating Russian, the invisible Canadian, and the Spanish and other Italian walking in. All of them talking about the same thing.

"Kesesesese, how was the first kiss?"

Words couldn't begin to describe what the moment was like.

Cut off mid-sentence by an impulsive pair of lips, this was one occasion when Germany would certainly let it slide. Finally, whatever doubts he had about the entire evening have been settled. By an unexpected, wonderful, chaste kiss. So this is what they were. A German and an Asian, what an odd couple they may seem. But against the odds, it worked.

"Thank you for this evening, Ludwig-kun, and the box. I shall see you tomorrow at the World Meeting."

The door shut quietly, the soft material of Japan's yukata and robe still seeming to cling to Germany's hands, even if they were separated by a dense door. A ghost of Japan's lips lingered against Germany's, not that he'd complain. Now, how he would go about explaining this all to the nations, he didn't know. But they have plenty of time to think things true, and then, only when they were ready, would they reveal their relationship to everyone.

Or at least, he thought he had plenty of time...

Author's Note: Hello everybody! Thank you if you enjoyed my story, and please leave a review if you really really enjoyed my story! I ship GerPan so hard, that I decided to make a fluffy little story about those two. Please excuse and grammar/spelling mistakes, and have a nice day! :)

P.S: Chrysanthemums in Italy hold a special meaning; they are basically the Flower of Death. Every November the 2nd, chrysanthemums are available anywhere and everywhere, since they are mostly used for funerals or for celebrating that day. I thought it would be a little funny to reference the little mix-up, though I do greatly respect the holiday. Look it up to learn something new :D