So yeah, I didn't abandon this story after all XD
I hope you like the update, requests and reviews are appreciated
Arthur hummed a tune to himself softly, a warm smile on his face as he carefully strung lights around the edge of the roof of Kiku's home, his hips swaying as he danced along to low playing Christmas songs in the background, memories of his adolescence pouring through his mind of years long gone. Having finished the interior of the home with some colourful fairy lights, the true festive feeling of Christmas began to fill his soul. This was his first Christmas in which he wasn't spending it alone or drinking his way through another yearly nightmare of America's Christmas parties. He didn't envy those who were forced to attend this year. He could be at peace with himself, in a different nation, experiencing his boyfriends culture. Decorating a quiet, plain and empty home with life brought so much joy, adding bright colours and flair to the home, made him smile. Though Kiku's traditional home was comforting, the décor, the framework, the garden, all of it was so beautiful, stargazing from the porch admiring the garden in moonlight. It felt like something from the pages of a romance novel or one of Japan's infamous graphic novels. But the festive vibrancy was so beautiful it made him want to cry, all his hard work had paid off. He'd decided to go with the colour of rainbows and plain white, reminding him of snow and allowing the colours to bring a new persona to the residence. From the outside world, covered in snow, it would be welcoming, the bright lights would lead Kiku home and remind him where he belonged. Tastefully changing the ambiance into something new.
Kiku's country enjoyed Christmas differently, they had giant trees, festive decorations and other traditions, however, Kiku didn't like the commercialized style that America had influenced on his country. Though he was a proud fan of J-pop, anime and even erotica, even he had his limits on what he found enjoyable or annoying. Advertisement existed all over the world, but America could be rather obnoxious with his, to the point at times it was laughable. England thought about adding his ideas to the design would be better, pretty, decorative but not in your face like America would. Holly, mistletoe, lights, a tree but nothing annoying, tasteful was a better word for it. The house appeared homely, bright, cheeky and sweet, the feeling that the home had a soul, a heart, its own life within, as if he could feel its heartbeat resonating. Besides, it was the only time of year you were allowed,the time of year when celebration and excitement followed. The year was coming to an end, but the season of giving was in full swing. So why not go all out to make the most of it? He'd made sure the lights had a dimmer to turn them down if they were too bright, changing the display brightness to suit Kiku and Arthur's preference. Making sure it was never blinding bright, or too low for them to be blind in the darkness. He'd wanted everything to be perfect, Now all he had to do was wait for his beloved boyfriend to come home. If things got intimate, he could enjoy his boyfriend in a different light, being able to set the mood and create fond memories.
Kiku paced through the snow, along the path that headed to home, the cold air tickling his cheeks, his breath unfurling before him like dragons smoke. His mind whirling through different thoughts, adding to his exhaustion, yet being able to admire his people enjoying Christmas. Some out for late drinks after work, some buying cake for their lovers, some on dates and some visiting family. He had been out getting some food for dinner, enjoying the snow, he had asked Arthur to join him but Arthur explained he had some jobs to do. He wanted to surprise Kiku somehow, but compared to America he wasn't worried about the antics that Arthur would get up to. Yes, the Englishman was cheeky and mischievous, but he was harmless, he knew England would never do anything to hurt his feelings. Compared to the immature pranks that America was capable of, England always apologized when he went too far. He wondered what other pleasant festive plans England had in store for him, bringing home bags of ingredients for dinner and even some alcohol for them to enjoy together. Though he had heard stories of England's antics while drunk, somehow he found the images both amusing and endearing. As his gaze roamed the starlit sky, he noticed something bright and vivid in the distance, leading him like a beacon, a calling card. His eyes widened as he realised it was his home, rainbow coloured fairy lights had been decorated along the ledge of his roof. Some even around the edges of the patio wooden walkway. Kiku felt his eyes widen, drawn to the spectacle like a small child, he was at a loss for words and could merely stand in the cold and enjoy the spectacle. This was what England had hoped to surprise him with? How had he been worried? Compared to the chaos that America was capable of. His home felt like a doorway to something magical, straight out of one of the pages of his graphic novels. Something out of one of England's rom com's, it was rather innate, simple. He reached for his phone to take a picture to remember the moment, ignoring the tingle of his cheeks and fingers from the cold. Wondering how he got so lucky.
"Tadaima" Kiku called politely, as he entered his front door, wondering if Arthur was perhaps in the bath or taking a nap. Removing his coat and scarf onto the nearby wall hangers before removing his shoes and placing them at the front step. He felt like a husband about to greet his beloved after a long day at work, the image of Arthur in an apron despite his lack of cooking skills did sound alluring. Pushing the thoughts to the back of his mind.
Suddenly, he heard footsteps before Arthur appeared with a warm smile "Welcome home love" he greeted tenderly. He hoped that Kiku hadn't succumb to the cold, his cheeks were pink and his hands were too. Perhaps he could make some tea to warm him up, or run a hot bath. He didn't want Kiku to become sick due to exposure to the cold. Kiku was more than capable of caring for himself, he had always been aware of his health, but he couldn't help but worry. He had an old soul in that sense, which was ironic given his nations age. The desire to protect those he loved, unable to cope with losing someone else.
Kiku raised an eyebrow curiously "England-san, did you set up light's while I was gone?" he questioned, unless he had asked neighbours for help or another nation had dropped in without his knowledge. He was in no way angry, he just wondered when England had the time to do it, how long he had been planning this. It would explain why he had been secretive today. While he tended to enjoy the simplistic quiet of the festive season, he knew England enjoyed trimming his home every season, albeit less obnoxiously than his ex ward. He knew England wished to share some memories from home with Kiku, which he understood and was glad Arthur wanted to share such a personal part of himself with him.
Arthur blushed, panic flashing through him, hoping he hadn't messed up, he had come all the way here to be with the person he loved. Rather than spend it alone and miserable, sulking as he always did. Perhaps he had been wrong on his intuition and hopeful romantic gesture. Was he angry? Had he made a mistake? He had hoped to surprise Kiku with another tradition from home in hopes of being romantic, allowing him to express himself. Lying to his lover wouldn't be a smart idea, possibly causing misunderstandings. He didn't want to fight with Kiku, he didn't want to upset him "Yes… um… sorry pet, I… I thought you may enjoy them" he stammered. If he didn't like them he would take them down at once.
Japan gazed at his boyfriend, his endearing awkwardness causing his heart to swell with love, there was a reason Arthur had the nickname Tsundere. He wore his heart on his sleeve, acted stubborn and hotheaded, yet denied the fact that he was nostalgic, lonely and kind hearted. Watching him make gestures like these in hopes of praise was adorable. They did look lovely from afar, a welcoming greeting that seemed warm and comforting after walking through the cold darkness for what felt like an eternity. Now understanding why so many people enjoyed admiring Christmas lights. "If the snow gets heavier, I won't have to worry about losing my way" he chuckled. Guiding him home, the deeper psyche of his brain that held primal instincts was allured by the lights.
England chuckled, a sense of relief washing over him "How else would you find a home?" he agreed.
Kiku and Arthur nursed mugs of mulled wine, a tradition that was enjoyed by Germany and England, a spiced red wine with cloves, cinnamon, orange and other spices. Warmed to a specific temperature to be enjoyed only during the festive season. It was sweet and soothing, warming him from the inside after being stuck in the cold. "So, we gather dried branches, leaves, berries and other decorative materials to bind them into a wreath or circle. It takes a lot of time and patience, but then when it's complete we leave it to rest. Then we add glitter or fake snow, though mind most use plastic these days rather than fresh plants" Arthur hummed. Wreaths were an age-old tradition in his country, going as far back as the medieval era and even the Victorian age. Placing them on your door to appear welcoming as to wish those around you Christmas joy. He had made his own every year, though he new purchasing one would be easier, it was a hobby he took pride in. Knowing hard work had made something beautiful. Though he knew America would tease him relentlessly for it.
"It sounds complicated" Kiku hummed, though he respected the effort that England placed in it. Every nation in the world celebrates Christmas in their way, borrowing from one another. But many had traditions deeply rooted in their history that they still kept to their identity. England never boasted about his hobbies or his traditions aloud at times, most likely due to the shame he felt about being teased. However, he deeply enjoyed hearing England reminisce about traditions, stories being shared from his past that still made him smile. Knowing his people had carried this on through centuries.
England chuckled, he couldn't lie that Japan was telling a truth "They are indeed, but they are beautiful to admire, allowing you to appreciate the effort". He knew many found it easier to buy mass produced ones, and after they were bought, making them last saved you money. Not everyone had the skill to make their own and with modern technology, hand made wreaths were becoming rarer.
"In my country, we have a tradition, called the red string of fate. Deeply tied to romance, we call it the red string of fate. Soulmates who are bound together by an invisible string. Binding them together, transcending time, distance and life. Destiny binding two souls" Japan pressed blushing. Nobody could see the string, invisible to the eyes of others, only visible to the eyes of the wielder, everyone had their string but never knew who was on the other end. But England was bound to the other end of his, they had been connected for a long time, they belonged together. The string tied to his finger was what led him home, prevented him from getting lost and how he always found himself running into England. Knowing the person on the other end waiting for him was a charming English prince. He had forged it into many different forms of literature, creating stories and lives that represented this love.
England blushed, though most assumed him to be merely a pervert, he was at heart a romantic like France, Spain and South Italy, he just repressed it out of embarrassment. Experiencing a love of pure devotion and loyalty, Kiku filled the emptiness which had accumulated over centuries, causing him to self isolate to prevent further sadness. Kiku's tenderness and patience was something he appreciated, knowing that no matter what trials and tribulations he faced, he would always understand. Around Kiku he was able to show the softer side he often repressed around others "I'm sorry I made you wait so long pet" he smiled.
Japan chuckled, they should consider eating soon, leaving a stomach empty for extended periods of time wasn't healthy. "Well I hope you like fried chicken, it's a strange tradition but one we enjoy every festive season". He didn't know where the tradition started and why, but it was one his country adored, something he took great joy in. It saved on cooking and it was a delicious treat for them to both enjoy. Of course he did enjoy cooking, but there was something irresistible about the crispy golden goodness of the fried chicken.
"Sounds delicious, I must say I've never tried it but it sounds bloody easier than cooking a whole meal" England reflected, America's fried chicken, greatly differed from the Japanese counterpart served in his lovers nation. But then he needed to introduce Japan to a Christmas dinner or a roast sometime, it was a cultural tradition. Perhaps he could get his brothers to join them for a family dinner, introduce them to Kiku. Thank god he had the common sense to get a dishwasher, it saved him so much hassle, the number of dishes after Christmas was terrifying. He was enjoying being away from home, he was enjoying trying something new, albeit scary it was also exciting. Seeing the world from another point of view, like a holiday.
Japan shifted, blushing with embarrassment, speaking of the red string of fate, he had purchased a scarf while he was out in hopes of surprising England. He knew it was early but Christmas eve was fast approaching and he had bought England other gifts. He wanted to spoil his lover, allow him to know how loved he was, giving something precious to him in hopes of conveying his romantic affections. He knew England enjoyed tea, magic and literature, but he didn't know what kind of books he liked. So he went purely on intuition in hopes of making him happy. Why shouldn't he enjoy at least one? "Gomen Arthur-san, I know it's early, I had hoped to give this to you earlier. But I suppose it makes the surprise more exciting" he babbled. England blushed, taking the present from Kiku bashfully, it had been so long since he had been given a gift by someone. When it was from someone you were dating it had a completely different meaning. He gently unwrapped the present, the crinkling of the paper filling him with childish glee, ripping it open to reveal a red scarf. His green eyes wide with surprise, running his fingers delicately across the soft material, a look of love on his face. He gently pulled it from the wrapping and wrapped it around his neck, it was warm and comforting as if Kiku was protecting him. A shield forged of material which would comfort him, keeping out the cold and marking him as someone else's.
Kiku smiled, gently stroking the material, his assumption of believing it would suit Arthur had been correct all along, listening to his intuition had proven fruitful. He knew it would suit England, he had always known, it just stood out, calling to him, he had to get it, nothing else would compare. It brought out the green in England's eyes and made his cheeks look rosier. He then gripped the material gently, pulling England closer abruptly, crashing his lips onto his own with a passionate kiss, making the Englishman blush. Now he could assure that England's attention was never diverted away from him, the scarf would keep him close, the red string of fate hinted in his attire. Arthur was stunned, feeling as though he was in a dream, realising why Kiku would have bought the scarf. His methods of flirtation and seduction were so subtle any clueless fool would be oblivious. Moments like these would become frequent, surprise kisses by using the scarf to bring them closer, Japan's secret dominant side coming to light. Kiku savoured the taste of his lover's lips, the softness and delicate sweetness, how he could lose himself in these moments. The taste of the wine still lingered, how he adored teasing England to see him blush, he had a weakness for cute things. He just couldn't help himself around the Englishman, how he wanted to see his softer side. He slowly pulled away, separating them, still holding the scarf "Aishiteru Yo" he whispered. He meant every word, words such as these were not easy to say aloud and he wouldn't say it for just anyone. Never had he felt so whole with someone then he had England.
England stared back at Japan, wide-eyed and frozen like a deer in headlights, caught in a moment, time having stopped as the world froze around him. His brain becoming a blur of emotions, surprised by Japan's bold gesture, still adapting to the domain side of his lover. The tender yet passionate gaze that always made him squeal internally, the perverse nature of Japan that he kept repressed or denied. Knowing Japan adored him, would claim him, yet never push boundaries if he wasn't happy. Showing a hidden passion for him that made his head spin and heart flutter. He bowed his head shyly, he was so in love with Kiku it hurt. His gift felt foolish and mundane in comparison, but it was the thought that counted above all. "I… I don't know how they can compare but…" Arthur mumbled, he handed Japan a decorated bag of presents, wrapped in tissue. They were nothing special, simple but meaningful presents he knew Japan would adore, ones that he could enjoy. He wouldn't take this scarf off if he could help it, but he would keep it safe, allowing no one to corrupt or damage it, this was a precious gift. He just hoped the same message could be conveyed from his side. Kiku blinked, releasing his grip on England to kiss his cheek fondly before opening his present, revealing a selection of bath salts and candles, green tea, cherry blossom, orange blossom and yuzu. A large selection that would have cost a fortune. Scents that he was rather fond of, that he found comforting and helped relax him. Then a small picture frame with a photo of them together, taken while on a date night together when England first arrived, a captured memory for them to remember. England broke the silence, he couldn't bear the silence, he couldn't shut his mind off and needed to spill out his thoughts. "I… I know…. Compared to this, they must seem trivial" England muttered. He had thought maybe they would make him happy, he knew Japan liked to relax in a hot bath, soaking his aching muscles and easing his mind. Perhaps he could use them in the onsen or perhaps his bathtub.
Japan stroked the glass of the picture affectionately, he would treasure this, whenever he missed England once he inevitably returned home, he would have a piece of him by his side always. Perhaps keep it at his desk when he was working, so England could help him press through his work. "It's beautiful Arthur-san, Arigato…" he smiled, it showed heart and affection. England softened, relieved he had made the right choice, Japan closed the gap, grasping England's hand in his own "I do hope we get to use the bath salts later" Japan winked. The scent of orange blossom oil seeped into England's skin did sound delicious, the delicate perfume would remind him of spring, his body still sensitive from the heat of the bath.
England buried his face in his scarf bashfully, wondering how much longer he would cope with Japan's teasing, placing so many ideas in his mind. He made the most simple of things sound romantic, imagining a sexy encounter at an onsen. Yet he trusted Japan so deeply, allowing him to see into his heart, past the walls, he had put up over the years. France's betrayal and his conflicted feelings towards him, their cat and mouse relationship, his sibling's tough love and torment, America's betrayal and disrespect towards him. So much sadness in his heart, weighing him down and suffocating him, yet with Japan, he could admit to that weakness, his flaws and trauma. He needn't feel afraid, he knew that Japan would never hurt him the way others had. He could be himself with Japan and feel at peace, more than he had in a long time. He made his heart race, filled him with excitement and made him realise what mattered. That he didn't have to be perfect to be loved. The warmth of the scarf, as warm as Japan's love for him, the colour red had always been equated to danger, strength, power, determination, passion, desire and love. So many symbols of what led to them becoming involved with each other.
He'd headed into unknown territory by becoming an ally of Japan, putting his heart and wellbeing on the line by getting close to him. Creating a bond and partnership that could have otherwise been rejected or gone horribly wrong. Heartbreak, betrayal, deception and more could have been expected, knowing Japan could easily have manipulated or used him, but instead, Japan was a risk he was glad he took. Japan gave him strength and became someone he protected and who protected him in return, someone who always had his wellbeing at heart. He felt stronger because of Japan, driven, empowered, his passions for the nation filled him and the feeling was mutual. It perfectly depicted how they felt for each other, whenever they were apart, he would think of Kiku, feeling closer to him. Wearing it in his presence would mean even more.
"He gave you a scarf?!" France blurted in surprise, England was so spoiled by the love of the Japanese male, he felt jealous. Part of him still adored England and always would, but the devotion and pure love of Japan was something he couldn't bear to destroy. Knowing how happy they made each other. You need merely look at the two of them together to see the expression of adoration in their eyes.
England winced as France dramatically yelled down the phone, honestly was this man capable of expressing himself calmly? It was Christmas, gift giving was expected, especially among couples, expressing love and affection through gifts. "Yes, Kiku gave me a lovely red scarf, supposedly it represents our fated string" he pressed. The warm festive colours were fitting and it be useful in his everyday life. Perhaps he could find smells and colognes that reminded him of his boyfriend, so he could wear it when he felt lonely. Sometimes he wondered if he could ever have an adult conversation without France getting dramatic or excited, though it could be humourous at times.
France groaned heavily, England was so lucky he wanted to cry, a partner so romantic he found symbolism in gifts. Wondering what exactly England would have chosen to buy him in return, he dreaded the thought. But then England had always been a little clueless, but that was his fault for not teaching him enough about love. Why couldn't he find someone that precious for him? Why was he of all people the single friend? Once he even considered he and England may have that love for each other. "Comment un imbécile comme vous a-t-il eu autant de chance?" France grumbled through the receiver. He had longed to find a love of his own, a companion that could warm his heart and inspire his love. But so far he found himself trapped in a world of mere friends with benefits and encounters that while brief, left him yearning for more. Wishing to find a companion of his own, someone he could embrace, someone he could treasure and experience such bliss with. How was the nation of love still a bachelor? Would he have to start taking advice from Spain? Or god forbid England
England sighed, the title of drama queen really was made for France of all people, how could he call himself big brother and act so immaturely. America had truly inherited his from him "Francis, are you really bloody sulking right now?" he scolded. He was supposed to be supportive, he was supposed to be listening and offering congratulations. Not throwing a tantrum. Wondering if France had received gifts from anyone at all, making him feel a little bad for the guy.
"Big brother is happy you are happy Angleterre, but it does remind me of my own loneliness" France huffed, he was merely yearning for what all dreamed of, love. Despite being the nation of love, it didn't always mean his love was returned, that the person he loved knew of his feelings. Sometimes love ended in heartache and regrets, he knew that better than anyone.
England softened, understanding how many loves France had known, including himself, he'd lost count of the people with whom had once owned his heart. The names and faces all becoming a blur but he never forgot a single one. Exes, what could have been, never meant to be, tragic loves, he still regretted what he did to Jeanne D'Arc. His church had wrongfully criminalized a teenage girl for fighting for what she believed in and was punished via her death. France would never forgive him for that, knowing how deeply France had loved her. France and himself had fallen in love deeply, first love and young love, but in the end they could never make it work. "Francis, what we had, what we felt, it was real. But I don't think we were ever meant to be, but you will always mean something to me. I know there are a million nations out there and one is for you" England comforted.
He heard a whimpering down the phone before France sobbed "You've grown up so much Angleterre, big brother is so proud". He would always remember England as the scruffy haired child that was bullied by others due to his sixth sense. A mysterious loner that harboured no ties to anyone and forged his own path. Though he lived neutrally these days, the memories of what he achieved in his past were remembered by all. Though he teased England relentlessly, it was a gesture of love and he would always be proud of the younger nation.
England winced, he wasn't in the mood to hear France's blubbering of bygone youth and their pasts. While he was glad France supported their relationship, he wanted to enjoy the moment. He knew France needed company, perhaps he could ask someone closer to home to make memories with. "Why don't you and Matthew spend a Christmas together, we co-parented him and though he's both our wards. You will always be a father to him" England suggested. He knew Canada had formed his own allies and friendships, including himself, but that didn't mean he didn't feel left out. America could take care of himself for once, maybe teach him some lessons on boundaries. Canada had always been the self-reliant, mature one, but he still craved love and affection as anyone else would.
"Oui, that is a wonderful idea Angleterre, Papa France will bond with beloved Matthew" France agreed
"England is your boyfriend?" America yelped down the phone, he knew they were spending Christmas together but it wasn't unusual for friends to go on holidays together. He knew England and Japan had a close alliance, they had been on friendly terms for years, but he never thought anything of it. He had always found it strange how well they got along due to how different they were, they were like chalk and cheese. There were other nations he had assumed Japan would end up with, just not his adopted brother of all people. Japan was polite, well mannered, nerdy, love cute things, anime and sometimes erotica, England was stubborn, short-tempered, perverted, a rather annoying drunk and enjoyed drinking tea. How had he missed that they were dating?
Japan sighed, he knew this would be hard to understand, but even the Axis allies had seen this coming. Mature relationships were not something America could understand fully yet, but that was due to his age. But the love he felt for England was sincere, a sentiment that was returned. "Hai, I do believe he's my soulmate, unusual I admit but opposites often attract. Which would explain why you are so drawn to Russia-san". He heard America splutter and panic down the phone, having been caught out on his accusations. Everyone was aware of the cat and mouse game between America and Russia that had been ongoing for centuries, they just knew how to get under the skin of the other. Russia found America's obnoxiousness and immaturity to be grating, yet loved to tease him and found his awkwardness endearing, both had a childish side to them. Yet he understood America's ongoing need for approval, hiding his insecurities under his hyperactivity. America was creeped out by Russia's cruelty and childish nature, how unpredictable he was, how he gave him the chills. But his loneliness, his trauma, his longing for love and capability for affection resonated with him, that maybe Russia was just complicated. Though neither would admit their attraction to the other.
"I… I just feel bad for the guy is all" America huffed, other nations were intimidated by him, he had no friends and they were trying to be on better terms these days.
Japan chuckled, England and America were very alike in how they wore their hearts on their sleeves more than they liked to admit. "Well, I'm sure Russia-san would love to come to your Christmas party, but I'm sure we will see you at the next world meeting next year" Japan reminded him.
Comment un imbécile comme vous a-t-il eu autant de chance?-How did a fool like you get so lucky?
