Title: Russia's wife

Disclaimer: I own nothing.

Cupcakes: thank you for the review! It's very much appreciated.

Claire: thank you for the review. I've been meaning to make this a dark fic but to do that would be similar to other Rusame author's work. Plus the real world affairs is too hot right now. It makes me worry for the country America.

Chapter 6: Interactions

Two and a half months later.

After the incident at the world meeting, Russia decided to add several locks for the door, just in case Belarus came to visit. In no way, was she and the rest of the countries allowed into their home, until they apologize for their behavior. Even Amelia disapproved of England's un-gentleman like manner.

Amelia prayed that the brawl at the world meeting would never happen again. They were civilized human personifications. They should act their age and come together in a mature manner.

But who was she kidding? Often times the best way to resolve disputes was a full on brawl, to settle their differences and she needed to stop interfering. She learned that the hard way. Countries would always have differences and like other people, there was just some you can never really like, try as you might.

In truth even she could never really rest easy when Cuba, Belarus or even North Korea are in the same room. Much more so with Belarus, she always felt a dark aura surrounding the other girl. It makes her wonder what does Lithuania see in her? I mean, sure she's pretty but to like a girl who hates you back was just asking trouble? She remembered the time she heard that Belarus broke all his fingers on a date or how she also broke his leg and strangled him. If that was not a sign of her hate towards him, she didn't know what is.

The couple decided to skip the world meeting all together this year and decided to go to work instead. Russia despite being on his honeymoon returned to work after adding the extra locks to the door while she called her boss.

The president gave her a job at the American embassy as a deputy ambassador. With her staying in Russia's land six months at a time, she had no choice but to work there. Although she still had to show herself during public functions, military exercises and travel from one state to another, all her other responsibilities were jammed pack into six months while she was at home but half the time during the holidays, she would be accompanying her husband.

Work was still as stressful as always even in an American embassy. She still had to submit her paper work via email but she didn't mind. Little by little the money that came from foreign investment help alleviate the problem in her land. If all goes according to plan the debt would be lower and the people would eventually manage it through the years.

Having Ivan at her side, made it easier for her sometimes. No longer did the world look at her to solve the world's problems, there was Russia to do that. She was only there to support him as best as she can.

To be honest, being with him wasn't also that bad. As his wife, she still had duties in the household, like laundry, buying groceries and taking care of the house but he also shared in the work. He would be the one to cook, throw the garbage and repair the things broken.

In a short span of time, she grew accustomed to living with him. She was still given freedom to do what she wanted. She usually would run across the city during early mornings, often does target practice in the backyard and does her Pilates at the living room three times as week. She could even call Tony to check the house.

Within a few weeks, the couple quickly adapted a routine in their domestic life. During movie night, they often curled up at home, ready for some quality time and a cozy, low-key evening in, too lazy to get out of the house. Date night on the other hand would often depend on who was planning it.

If it was Russia, it would often be dinner in one of those fancy restaurants, an evening stroll at the park, or even watching ballet or opera. There were also formal but awkward state functions with his boss. She would often be in her best behavior while under the careful eye of her husband's boss.

She was often surrounded by Russian diplomats, officers and their wives. For those who knew her identity, it was hard for them to believe that Russia's wife who look old enough to be their teenage daughter was actually the United States of America. The others who didn't, commented at her young age, joked how Russia married a school girl. Naturally, Russia merely smiled.

Amelia complained that state functions were not considered a date night. In all honesty, she didn't mind being with diplomats, it was her job. It was the bureaucracy of things but Russia's boss scared her. He was so unlike her boss, who she can always come up to for her problems. As much as possible she didn't want to interact with Russia's boss. It was common knowledge that the number of poisonings increased when Putin came into power. What a coincidence.

If it was Amelia's turn, she would often opt to go to bars or clubs, watch ice hockey or even visit the circus. She loved doing exciting things. She could actually match Ivan shot after shot of vodka and still have the energy to tour the city.

The only thing that worried her was her other wifely duties such as close intimacies. Never did Russia touch her in anyway. Sure he would often hold her in his arms during the night but he never proceeded further. She wondered if there was something wrong?

He said he was attracted to her so why is he not making his move? He could be romantic at times. One time, he carried a tray so she could have breakfast in bed and gave her roses out of the blue but apart from that. He backs off.

She was so lost in thought that she didn't notice her phone ringing. When she did, it was after the third time the caller tried. She checked to see Japan calling from her cell.

Happily she greeted her friend, "Hello, Japan!"

"Konnichiwa, America-san. I hope I am not bothering you."

"You're never a bother to me. What's up dude?"

"I just wanted to talk to you. I am here in Moscow passing through the city. I wanted to ask you if you were free tomorrow morning?"

"Yeah, sure. I need to talk to Ivan first but I'm sure he wouldn't mind. Hey, Sakura?"

"Yes, Amelia-san?"

"I'm sorry we left abruptly last time. I was worried, where you stayed the night because you failed to get a hotel room."

Good-heartedly, Japan replied, "That's alright I decided to stay at the Japanese embassy instead. The people there were so accommodating."

She informed Amelia that the others talked about them when they left. She also informed her about the latest rumors going on from the gossip mill aka world meeting. But nothing could top off the topic of their marriage. When England had the chance to speak, he questioned the validly of their marriage.

Amelia sighed. Looks like England was at it was supported by Belarus who claimed that America was at fault. Surprisingly enough China voted on their legitimate union.

After a few minutes of catching up, America ended the call promising to call her back after she talked to Russia.

Looking at the time, she decided to visit her husband at the office. With a plan, she bought a box of donuts and proceeded to the Moscow Kremlin building. Instead of calling him, it was best for her to talk to him face to face.

A smile graced her lips, "Privyet, Russia."

"Hello, wife. What are you doing here?"

"I came by to visit. I brought coffee and donuts?" Raising the box of donuts in front of him.

"Thank you, podsolnechnik but you didn't have to do that."

"Well I thought since you were spending the night here. You might need a break?"

"That was very thoughtful of you."

"Well, to be honest. I had ulterior motives." Amelia gave her a weak smile.

Russia frowned. "And that is?"

"Well, Japan decided to visit and I was wondering if I could go out window shopping with her?" Amelia gave her best impression of her puppy dog eyes.

"I do not know, Amelia."

"I promise I won't be long? We'll just see the city. Please, Ivan?"

Russia hesitated.

Japan may ruin his plans with Amerika. He wanted to properly date his wife and he hated interferences. She would have the chance on persuading her otherwise. Everything he made would be for naught if Amelia became unwilling but to refuse her more would make her all the more suspicious. He needed to tread carefully on this.

"I see. Do you need an escort or tour guide?" asked Russia.

America shook her head. "That's alright. I hate to trouble you."

"It is no trouble. I will rest easy if you have one. You often get lost, Amelia."

"I most certainly do not?"

Ivan raised a brow.

"Ok fine but that was only one time, when I was in Romania and everyone was talking Romanian. Happy?"

Ivan nodded. She could never really lie to him and if she does he would often find out eventually.

"Trust me. We don't need an escort. We'll manage."

"I don't know, podsolnechnik." Russia was still not convinced.

When she saw his face, she tried placate him. "Please, baby. You know, Japan was the one that actually defended us when England and Belarus tried to question the legally of our union?"

"Really now?"

"Uh huh. I know you and Japan fought in the past but please for my sake could you let it go? She's my best friend."

Now that was a surprise? Russia thought that aside from England and Finland, Japan would be one of their opposers. He needed to reconsider his opinion of the small island nation. He must thank her when he comes across her.

Looking at it, he saw no further trouble of refusing her request. If Japan is truly their ally then it would be best to encourage her opinion of their relationship. He hated to hear of other nations thinking that he was hurting his wife. A stroll through the city would not hurt. Thus, he agreed.

Amelia was so happy that she hugged and kissed her husband on the cheek. "Thanks, big guy!" She said before retreating through the door.

Russia was stunned but he regained his composure. He had such an expressive, affectionate if not tactile wife.

After a few more minutes, he returned to his paper work. Work does not finish itself, he contemplated. If he wanted to see his wife tomorrow, he needed to finish his report as soon as possible. His boss demanded too much from him sometimes. A true slave driver.

The only solace he had was the cup of coffee and donuts his wife gave. It was the little things that made him thankful.

He was glad to have Amelia at his side. During the times they were on different sides, he often saw how the world treated her. Being on top was never easy, America became the center of all kinds of attack. The countries would often criticized her for her meddling. Her enemies openly sneered at her while some of her so called allies would speak ill of her behind her back. He knew it and even America knew it.

A blind man cannot ignore the whispers of hate and distain spoken to his ear. It was why he had to step up. Aside from his growing power, he had to show the world that Amelia was no longer alone. Despite their leader's selfish interests, he wanted to show the world that he was strong and worthy as America's equal. He hated how she was hit on different fronts. Thus, he became protective of her.

If they probably go to war against the whole world he would not relinquish his wife to anyone. He was crazy in that respect, a tad similar to Belarus but it was common for siblings, after all, to have similar characteristics.

True, his marriage prevented the Third World War but that did not prevent other wars to ensue. If the next generation were smart enough, they would remember the agony of the two world wars and just leave things well enough alone.

He may have tipped the scales a little bit but it was only to claim the prize he deserved. Even he had a right to take his wife. Being with her was like finally having a companion to share the weight of the world. He often wondered how she made it look so easy. He would have to talk to her about it but she'll probably just laugh it off.

Amelia had already expressed her decision to let the world move on without her. Jokingly, she said it was now his problem and she didn't want to be involved. But even he knew when push comes to shove she would draw her claws and fight when the time was right. Thus, it was only right to let sleeping lions lie. He knew that despite her weakened state, she was still strong enough to take on the world. She was after all a superpower deserving to be feared by all. It is only that the American people are now focused more on their homeland rather than the affairs of the world. The cross was, therefore, shifted to him to carry and it was his duty to secure their safe future.

Looking at the window, he hoped that China would also have the same luck. But seeing that there were still brewing tensions against the two countries, China needed to compromise if he ever wanted to woo Japan.

He wondered if he could nudge the two along. Japan is his wife's best friend but seeing as she still hates him, he doubts he could persuade her to give China a chance. With that thought in mind, he decided to go back to work.

A few minutes later, he was again interrupted by his cellphone. Ivan looked at the screen to see China's smirking face on the flat surface of his phone. Speak of the devil

"Hello, comrade," said Russia evenly.

"Greetings, Russia. We didn't see you for the rest of the meeting, aru?"

"Amerika and I decided to skip it, this year."

"Oh? Enjoying your newly-wedded bliss, aru?"

Russia chuckled, "Something like that."

"So how is life, aru?"

"Still the same, comrade."

"And how is the lovely Mrs. Ivan Braginsky, aru?"

Russia merely chuckled recalling his wife's antics. "Still the same as well."

"No change at all? No tantrums, fights or crazy manipulations?"

"Surprisingly, Amerika has been quite docile. I will be lying if we did not fight of trivial things but we usually agree on important ones."

"Will there soon be an addition to the Braginsky household?"

Russia shook his head even though the other cannot see it. "Nyet, comrade. Not yet. I want to enjoy my wife before I share her with others. Now let's go straight to the point, why did you call me, comrade?"

There was silence on the other end until China spoke again. China sighed as expressed his dismay. "I seem to have lost Japan, old friend. I have neither seen hide nor hair of her these past two months. Have you seen her by any chance, aru?"

"She's here in Moscow, visiting Amerika for a few days."

The response were several Chinese slur words and phrases that even Russia was surprised China even knew and uttered. The arrogant nation would often think highly of himself and would never lower himself to speak such words. After a minute or two of silence he spoke again. "She's there, aru?"

"Da."

"At your house, aru?" Russia could already see China coming over and staying the night at the pretense of a visit.

"Nyet. America says she's at her embassy in Moscow."

"Oh."

Russia could already imagine his disappointed face. "Speaking of Japan, how is your courtship of her."

"She is proving to be difficult, aru. She can be illusive when she wants." China complained. "I try to speak to her but she oftentimes disappears and when I do find her, she is at England's side."

Russia chuckled. England was a constant figure with both girls. Having known Japan even before the world wars and Amelia as his ward. He was an irritant to both of them in their pursuit of their chosen mates.

"I do not like it, Russia. I understand America's connection with England but Japan's continued relation with him makes me uneasy."

"Love is like that, comrade, even I had my share when I pursued Amerika." He recalled Amerika's interactions with other countries like Israel, Germany and even South Korea. The way they looked at her was not lost on him.

"I am trying my best to make my intentions known but there are factors that are beyond my reach. Even if she is one of my trading partners I do not see her outside boardrooms. Unlike you, Russia where you often see your little prize at war zones."

Contrary to what China said, he never really saw Amelia during conflict. He remembered when he felt her presence in Georgia and Ukraine, feeling her so close to him, but he never saw her.

"Yes, well, it is like that old saying, all's fair in love and war, da? You must act swiftly or else another will take her away.

"I—I know that, aru but I do not know what to do? If Japan is together with England, everything I do will be for nothing."

Russia furrowed his brows. An indecisive China was never appreciated. "All is not lost, China. England is still preoccupied trying his best to dissolve my marriage. You still have time to take what is yours. Canada is hosting that Halloween party at his capital. Japan will surely be with Amerika. Make your move by then."

He could already imagine China opportunity that was presented to him. Even though, not a word was spoken it was as though they already knew what the other had in mind.

"Thank you, Russia."

"Do not mention it, comrade. It is always a pleasure helping an ally."

With that, the two ended their conversation and promise to get in touch in a couple of days.

"Amelia-san over here!" Japan exclaimed over the crowd.

Even in a sea of people, she could always feel one of her kind. They were different from humans in that respect. She caught sight of her best friend. Within seconds she was embraced and hugged, laughingly bombarded with countless questions.

"You look better," said Japan. She tucked her arm through that of her friend's and gave it a firm squeeze.

"Thanks, I have a theory that Ivan's trying to fatten me up." Amelia jokingly answered.

Japan gave her a curious glance. Even though she looked like a young girl, Japan was far older than her by two millenniums. Thus, she often looked after the younger nation.

They talked about the last world meeting and the speculations of the world why they got married. Many speculated that it was a way to further show Russia's dominance over the west. Others saw it as a threat specifically by the Islamic states. The others bordered into ridiculousness. One speculated that their union was to establish world order. Another way to dominate the world by the Illuminati. Japan informed her of the allies that defended her decision and others that opposed it.

"You know, America-san that no matter what happens. I will always support you, right?"

Amelia gave her a genuine smile. "I know, Japan. You're probably wondering why I agreed to it?"

Japan nodded. "For all the years that we've been friends after the world wars. Never have I opposed you. Surely, you would grant my request when all I want is to ask you why? Why Russia?"

Amelia at first shrugged. "I don't know why exactly." She said honestly before placing her hand on her chin. "Only that I felt it was the right thing to do. I mean, I entered into this agreement, with my eyes wide open and considered all my options." She explained further, "The agreement gave several benefits that I would be foolish not to take into consideration but aside from that it just felt right, I guess."

Japan merely gave her a smile. "Do you still have a crush on him?" She tried to tease her friend just to lighten the mood.

"Japan!" There was a light blush on her cheeks.

Sakura merely laughed. Her friend was still transparent on her affections over the larger nation. "I"ll take that as a yes. So have you done it?"

"No! Well not yet." Amelia awkwardly answered. "Oh, who am I kidding. He didn't even try anything, Sakura."

"Really? That is very odd."

"I actually worry, he doesn't want me?"

Doesn't want her? That was strange the last time she check Russia was infatuated over the star spangled state.

"Why did you say that?"

"We've been together for more than two months, we've been sleeping in the same bed, living at his house all this time, he didn't make a move. Not once, Sakura!"

"Well, why don't you make the first step, America-san?"

"Huh?"

"Seduce him."

"I—I don't think I can do that, sis?"

"Why not? You're married now. You have every right to seduce your husband."

"Yes, but..."

Japan raised a brow. "Amelia, you are the United States of America. You can do anything."

"But to seduce my husband is-"

"Is a common and natural occurrence to a healthy relationship." Sakura looked at Amelia, her Puritan ways were showing once again. It did cause her to question if Amelia ever did it with a man?

"Amelia, just a thought, are you still a virgin?"

"Well, yeah. England made sure of it. He even chased after France with a harpoon when he tried something."

No wonder she was flustered in this kinds of conversation. "Well, Amelia, rest assured that you are not committing any sin and it is perfectly natural for you to seduce your husband."

"Thanks master Yoda. I'm assuming that this is the voice of experience speaking?"

Japan blushed but she shook her head. Even today, she was shown to be conservative in many fronts. It was the very reason why she often felt unnerved by Italy's actions. "So do you want to try the lingerie store?"

Sakura succeeded in coaxing her friend to go inside before trying a few things.

In the end, her window-shopping with Japan, however, was cut short when Japan's boss called her to return to the Japanese embassy. Knowing that nothing takes precedence aside from work, she excused her friend and the excursion was cut short. So there she was sitting in a ledge near a mall's fountain. She was about to go home when she decided to call her husband instead. A smile graced her lips.

"Privyet, Ivan!" She said cheerily.

"Hello, Amelia."

"Babe, where are you?"

"At the office, what about you?"

"Here at the Metropolis, Japan ditched me." She informed her how Japan's boss called and she was left all alone."

"Well, I finished my work earlier than expected. I could come to you if you wait for me?"

She happily agreed. A few minutes later, he arrived to find her at the food court with two steaming cups of coffee. She handed him a cup. "Hey, I'm sorry for bothering you. I guess, I got lonely."

"You do not have to apologize, Amelia. I am your husband. Call me anytime, you need me."

Amelia smiled. She later recalled what she heard from Japan where the world was divided about their marriage. The most ludicrous conspiracy was that their marriage occurred to establish world order and how it all boiled down to Illuminati. Russia chuckled at such a foolish notion.

After finishing their coffee. They decided to walk around the mall. They stopped by one of the shops that had various dresses on display. "See anything you like, babe?"

"I'm not sure. The holidays are around the corner and I need help finding a suitable gift for my sisters." Russia looked over her. "You might have the same size as Belarus."

"I-I guess, I can help." America awkwardly answered.

While going through the store to look for various choice, America also tried shoes, bags and cosmetics for herself. She asked Russia his opinion on some of them. There were also several pieces of jewelries that caught her attention like the pearl earrings on display but she later left it behind because she was on a budget. She'll probably buy it during the year end mall sale.

She wore several blouses and skirts that would best fit Russia's sisters Belarus and Ukraine but in the end, they opted to buy each one a dress based on their colorings and bust sizes. They went to a pet shop looking at the cute little cats and dogs. America stated that she had a cat at home who was furry and fuzzy but she left it at Washington. Russia squeezed her hand and told her she could always go back to get her cat but she merely laughed and said that it was fine. Her cat was being taken cared of by the first children at the White House.

They later decided to watch a movie after several hours of walking. They were so engrossed that they forgot the time. It was only when Japan called her to meet at the atrium that she remembered about her friend. Japan apologized again for leaving her but America let it go. She informed her that she'll be at the atrium in a couple of minutes.

When they went to the atrium to find Japan, they were surprised to find Finland and Sweden with her.

"Dads!" Amelia gave Finland and Sweden a hug. They returned her hug but eyed Russia warily. She went back to Russia's side and held his hand again.

Finland frowned at that. It was still surprising to see the two together. Just three years ago, the tensions were so high, the world was anticipating the second Cold War. Now they were together?

"I didn't know you were also here in Moscow?"

"We wanted to see you, darling."

Amelia noticed their eyes looking down at their intertwined hands. In her haste to get there, she didn't notice that she dragged Russia towards the atrium. She defended herself that they were already married and couples often hold each other's hand.

She noticed that England, France and Canada were not with them. She frowned, England and his foolish pride! Eventually, he'll grew accustomed and they will move past this as they always do. They'll be meeting with them soon enough since they just received an invitation for Canada's Halloween party. Looks like it was his turn to host the party this year. Hopefully England mellowed a little by then.

The rest of the hour went by with Japan explaining what happened at the office. The group decided to have an early dinner before going to a karaoke bar. It was a sign that they were welcoming Ivan into the family.

As the evening progressed, Finland observed the couple. During dinner, Amelia segregated the food items that Ivan didn't like to eat and placed it on her plate. It was also noted that Ivan would take a bite from Amelia's plate and vice versa. He noticed how Russia knew her likes and dislikes of food.

He decided that maybe it might be good for Amelia to have a restraining hand. She could often be brash and rush into the fray without thinking. Maybe with Russia at her side, she would not be too fool hardy and grow more of a lady. Finland, thus, nodded his approval to Sweden who was also thinking the same lines.

At the end of day, Finland and Sweden pulled the couple into the corner to give them their blessing but threatened Russia that if he hurts their daughter, they would castrate him. America merely rolled her eyes. They also asked them to spend the holidays in Helsinki which the couple readily agreed. The group later parted ways with Amelia glad that at least Finland and Sweden gave their blessings.

If only her second set of foster family would do the same. Would it hurt for England to lay down his pride sometimes? And France despite showing his perversity would often be the voice of reason and buffer the other's anger. He would often try to talk to England to see their side of the story and invisible Canada who was always in between despite being the friendliest nation in the world. She sighed while she remembered her typical but dysfunctional family.

When Russia noticed, he asked if there was something wrong but she merely shook her head and said she just wanted to go home.