39. Beauty in all Things
Date Written: March 24, 2019
Date Posted: January 25, 2020
Characters: Veneziano, Liechtenstein
Summary: Liechtenstein just recently cut her hair to show her appreciation for her brother. Unfortunately, she still feels a little self conscious about it.
Notes: Takes place during those scenes in the anime where it's all about Liechtenstein's relationship with her brother.
"You cut your hair?"
Liechtenstein nodded; she was a bit surprised that Mr. Italy was talking to her. "Ah… I thought that it would… help show my appreciation for my big brother."
For a moment, the much older Nation gazed at her, a look of utter confusion on his face. When the silence continued for far longer than was necessary, the young girl felt the roundness of her cheeks catch fire, the tips of her ears blooming dusty rose. In shame, she cast her eyes to the ground, too aware of the fact that she had probably made a fool of herself.
A finger lifted her chin and she caught sight of the Italian smiling in reassurance. "My apologies, sweet Liechtenstein! I just thought that it was really inspiring for you to support your brother!"
Her dark green eyes widened at his admission. "A-are you saying that because you mean it or—"
As such was the fashion of all Latin Nations, Italy had dropped down on one knee, head tilted upward as if he were a knight in front of his chosen lady. Liechtenstein may not have been born amidst the romantic era of gallant men slaying enemies to win fair lady's hand, but she did allow a breathless little laugh to escape her lips.
Oh, how silly he looked! She may not have the audacity to say such a thing to a Nation a few millennia her senior, but the twinkle in his eyes probably felt like he knew how she felt.
"Bella ragazza," he began as the blonde flushed further at such sweet address. "Why would I ever have the gall to mislead you? You are just as beautiful as the morning star or the edelweiss that grows on your fields. Long hair or short hair, I cannot deny your beauty."
And perhaps it was his archaic way of speaking or the fact that several onlookers were busy trying not to look like they were observing, but the girl felt a mirthful laugh leave her. It was a joyous little thing that brought smiles to anyone who heard her. It was a laugh that reverberated from her chest and out her mouth, the force of which had her almost keeling over.
"Are you always—" A snort. "—this enchanting—" Another giggle. "—Mr. Italy?"
"Well," the Italian remarked as he gracefully swept himself up to his feet and offered the blonde his right arm, "I should hope so. All beautiful ladies deserve to be enchanted."
He paused and reached for her violet hair ribbon to straighten it.
My, her new hairstyle was such a lovely thing indeed!