A/N at bottom

1763 (The end of the war)

Well, we all know how this part of the story ends. Matthieu wasn't stupid. He knew that his time with Francis was up, and there was nothing he could do to stop it.

He couldn't bare to tell Ludwig and Romano. Maybe that made him a coward, but he just couldn't face them. He let Francis handle that for him.

He had some time to pack his things, avoid eye contact with his friends, and give a nod to Antonio and Gilbert, who looked on silently.

So when he came face to face with the Devi- erm, England, he thought for sure he would be ready. But as it turns out, nothing could have prepared him.

He had never seen Francis look at someone with so much hate in his eyes. Matthieu held a suitcase, which held everything he owned (he wasn't one for physical possessions). Francis stood behind him, his hand rigid on Matthieu's shoulder. The Brit had his arms crossed, clearly uncomfortable. He tries to avert his eyes from Francis, but Francis' eyes bore into his skull. Matthieu swore he wouldn't cry or show any sign of weakness in front of England, but he really wanted to break down. Rather than feel sad, he just felt... tired. Francis looked down at him and whispered in French (mainly to upset England):

I'll visit you, I promise. Stay strong Matthieu.

Je t'aime, Francis!

Au revoir, Matthieu! Je t'aime!

Matthieu stoically walked towards England. He prayed his voice wouldn't crack when he spoke.

"England." Matthieu looked him in the eye.

"Matthew."

"Please, call me Arthur."

"Call me Matthieu." Arthur cringed at the French use of the name, but he figured the kid had been through enough that day. He wasn't

completely heartless.

"Well, Matthew, I suppose we should be going." Matthieu looked back towards Francis, gave a nod, and said:

"Yes, I suppose so."

Arthur looked back towards Francis and, in the most awkward tone of voice, said:

"Goodbye, Francis."

"...Angleterre."

"... Let's go, Matthew."

After that, Francis didn't see Matthieu/Matthew for a very long time.

A/N

And that's the chapter! Well, this section of the story is over, so I won't write for a bit as I prepare for the next one. Maybe I'll write some bonus chapters or a one-shot? As always, criticisms are greatly appreciated! Happy Holidays!