Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

America was sitting in his designated spot at the spontaneous meeting. He usually was late, but he was really early this time. His head was down, and the wings that seemed to almost be in place of his ears were covering his head, keeping the fluorescent lights out. America knew that this would be too much. He had been brought in to see how bad he would react to all of the loud noises at the last meeting, when he had first been brought out of that… thing in Florida. America did not want to deal with anyone right now. His voice was quiet, as had been the norm for the past week.

America: “United Nations, can you please tell me why I needed to be here for this meeting, or at least why you can’t turn down the lights?”

When America didn’t get a response for about 10 seconds, he opened one eye a little, to the point where it wasn’t too bright, but where he could see. United Nations wasn’t there. Of course, she just had to leave him alone in a bright room. America put his sunglasses down. He didn’t like wearing them much anymore, but he couldn’t stand the bright, white shine on him. It was too much. He slowly moved towards the food table. He had been so hungry as of recently. He had only gotten one meal a day, and sometimes there were maggots in it. He made it to the food table, and he started eating. Honestly, it was probably too much for him to eat at once, but he was too hungry to care at the moment. He only stopped when he felt the pain of being too full. America’s voice was even quieter than the previous time.

America: “Goddammit… that was too much…”

America made his way back to his seat. He put his head down on the table and closed his eyes. Not only did he need more sleep, but he also didn’t want to hurt. America only woke up when he was shaken on the shoulder. He raised his head so quickly that it was a little concerning. He looked towards the tap. He calmed down a little when he saw NATO.

America: “Yes, NATO?”

NATO: “Sir, United Nations has told me to wake you up.”

America sighed. He adjusted his sunglasses to stay on his nose, before he looked towards United Nations. He stayed quiet. He didn’t want to talk, especially not in front of a group of people, but he would if he had to. America couldn’t focus on anything but the pain from his stomach. It seemed like every second, it was more likely that he was going to throw up. America cut off anyone speaking at that moment.

America: “United Nations, can I use the restroom?”

United Nations: “And why do you need to use the restroom?”

America got kind of annoyed. His voice was getting quieter.

America: “Why should I tell you? I don’t think you want a description of someone using the bathroom.”

United Nations was quiet for a few seconds

United Nations: “…Fine.”

America stood up. He walked towards the bathroom. He barely shut the door to the bathroom before he started throwing up the food he had just eaten. He did not want to do so, at all, but he had eaten too much, too fast. He grabbed one of the paper towels and cleaned his mouth. He threw the towel into the trash, grabbed a mint from his bag, and put it in his mouth. He made sure to get rid of any evidence that he just threw up, before he went back to the meeting. He had his eyes closed, so he bumped into someone. America stumbled back and fell right onto his ass. America opened his eyes and looked at who he had ran into. Usually, people couldn’t knock him to the ground by just having him run into them.

America: “Canada?”

Canada looked pretty disgusted.

Canada: “Don’t talk to me.”

America’s eyes widened. He stood up.

America: “Come on, what did I do? We’re siblings!”

Canada just walked away. America was left standing there, feeling even worse than before. He looked at the ground. Sure, his relationship with Canada was never stable, but Canada never acted like… that… There was always some sort of relationship with them that could be built back up, but this time, it seemed liked there wasn’t. America slowly walked back into the meeting. He ignored anyone looking at him as he made his way back into his seat. America looked around after a few seconds, since no one was talking at all

America: “What?”

United Nations: “I asked you, where were you for that month and a half?”

America froze. He lowered his head, and the wings on his back covered his entire body. He brought his knees up to his chest. His breathing quickened. He jumped when someone touched his wing. He hissed, almost like a literal cat. America backed up, to the point where he got off his chair. America looked at who had touched his wing.

NATO: “Sir, you must calm down.

America’s voice was pretty shaky.

America: “Don’t touch me!”

America continued backing up. He backed into a wall, which just made him even more jumpy. He knew he should calm down. Be more ‘professional’ and such. But, he just… couldn’t. America grabbed the light blue star on his necklace. He could feel the eyes of everyone on him still. America looked over at the door when it opened. America tensed up more than before, and he ran to the corner away farthest from the door that just opened.

Canada: “Oh great, there’s two Americas.”

America: “That’s not me, I swear to-“

Other America: “Shut up, brother, or else I’m draggin’ you right back to the White House an’ puttin’ you back in that cage!

(Guess who the other America is, it’s totally not obvious 😒)

America actually shut up. America scanned the room, looking for someone who could help him. He knew of his poor relations with pretty much every country at the moment. Maybe China would remember how she was his friend for a bit there. America sure remembered. But Trump had to just ruin that. Well, it was probably the best choice. America slowly made his way over towards China. America whispered.

America: “China. China. Come on, answer me. I know you can hear me.

China looked over at America. China seemed mildly annoyed.

China: “What do you want.”

America: “Can you help me?”

China: “And what could you need help with?”

America: “That guy. The one that just came in. He’s the one doing everything with my government. Not me. Could you keep him away?”

China thought for a few seconds before nodding. America relaxed a little, but not much. America used the wings on his head to cover his face once again. America could feel his head pounding. He felt cramped all over again. His breathing picked up. He started breathing out of his mouth instead of his nose. Goddammit, he was practically falling apart into a million pieces, even more so than the two cracks under his eyes that made it look like he was crying said that he was. America’s almost demon like tail, which he usually hid, came out and wrapped around him. He sat on the ground, the wings on his back covering his entire body. He started actually crying. At one point, he felt himself be picked up. America very quickly looked back at who picked him up. It wasn’t who he was expecting, thankfully. America looked back at someone who, wasn’t nearly as bad, but probably wouldn’t be much help. America was pulled close to the other person, almost in like a hug. America pretty quickly started trying to get out of Germany’s attempt at a hug. America hadn’t noticed how much Germany seemed to worry about America.

America: “Germany, let me go… I don’t like hugs…”

America felt Germany let him go, and he relaxed a little again. America could tell that Germany was still close, but at least he wasn’t being touched. America saw the other America, who was acting like a fucking evil villain in a poorly written horror movie, that somehow scares the main character, but just makes the viewer cringe. Yeah, and America’s that scared main character. America backed away a little, but his wrist was grabbed by Germany before he could get too far. America flinched, but he didn’t fully pull away. America whispered, mainly to himself.

America: “Why is he here? I thought he was trapped. The government agreed to keep him contained in exchange for me to not kill him! They went against their word!”

America then realized that United Nations was looking at him. He forgot that United Nations was made with really good hearing, even though that was one of his additions to her. America stared at United Nations for a few seconds before turning his head away. America’s voice was loud, and aimed at the other America. It was also slightly shaky.

America: “Confederate. Why are you here? You’re supposed to be, at the very farthest, in DC. We agreed to keep it a secret that you, a dead country, are still alive! And you’re pretending to be me!”

All America heard was a chuckle from Confederate in response. America sighed.

America: “Listen, we should take this outside. Let the meeting continue, you know?”

Confederate smirked. They both knew that America was putting himself at risk, and yet, America was still trying to make it easier for others. America gave a look towards Germany when he held America’s wrist tighter.

Germany: “America, I think this is something that should be discussed in front of everyone. If you truly have been keeping this secret for this long, then you should be the one to tell us about it.”

America glared at Germany, but he didn’t argue. America sighed.

America: “Ask him, not me. I wanted to kill him, but my government wouldn’t let me. I think they wanted to learn more about us.”

United Nations: “So your government has known about our existence for how long? You know we are supposed to stay secret!”

America: “Since early in 1862. In 1865, when his attempt to secede failed and my country’s army beat his, my government made me keep him alive, probably to figure out more about us. I only accepted to the condition that they kept him contained, even though I wanted to kill him.”

Everyone was quiet for a moment. Then, United Nations walked over there. She grabbed Confederate and talked to both him and America.

United Nations: “For everyone’s safety and comfort, I think it would be best if both of you were confined for at least a couple days.”

America tensed up.

America: “Can I ask you for a couple of requests when we’re not in front of everyone?”

United Nations nodded, and then started walking. She assumed that America would follow her, but the vibe that she got from Confederate was that he would try to run away, so she kept holding onto Confederate. America was following United Nations, even if from slightly far behind. America’s head made it look like he was looking at the ground, but his eyes kept looking around the room.

Thankfully, United Nations put Confederate into a separate room and did so before America. However, Confederate didn’t go so easily.

Confederate: “I ain’t bein’ confined like some sorta animal!”

Confederate then attacked United Nations. America ran forward and grabbed Confederate before Confederate did anything. Unfortunately, that made Confederate try to attack America, and he pretty easily succeeded. America felt something stab through his left leg. He let out a screech and fell over. America yelpled when what stabbed his left leg was pulled out. America grabbed his leg, and there was a good sized hole through it. He could even see the bone. America looked back at Confederate, and he saw that Confederate’s stupid little demon tail was dripping in blood. America started panting. He tried to find something to wrap around the wound.

America didn’t hear anything that happened between United Nations and Confederate.

America had just held his wound until a bandage was held near him. America let go of the wound and let United Nations wrap the bandage around his leg.

America: “Do you know if WHO will take me?”

United Nations didn’t look up from wrapping his leg in bandages.

United Nations: “Why wouldn’t she?”

America: “Because my country kind of… left?”

United Nations: “WHO wants to help anyone in need. I’m almost sure she’ll help, and even if she doesn’t, I’ll help.”

America sighed. He managed to stand up, but he had to lean onto the wall. United Nations and America worked together to make it towards the medical room. When they got there, WHO was doing some paperwork. She looked up when she heard the door open, though her expression became more closed off when she saw America.

America: “Hey, WHO… I’m sorry for my president’s actions… But, I need help. My twin brother, who is the one who represents my current government, stabbed my leg, and I could see the bone.”

WHO thought for a few seconds…

Chapter Text

WHO looked into America’s eyes.

WHO: “Fine. Just this one time.”

America bowed slightly.

America: “Thank you, ma’am.”

WHO raised an eyebrow, but the ignored the unnecessary title. She helped America into a separate room. United Nations stayed back, since she knew WHO wouldn’t let her go in the room with the patient.

America sat down on one of the chairs.

WHO: “America, you have to go into the patient’s chair. You’re the patient.”

America closed his eyes and tensed up a little. He stood up and did sit down in the chair WHO pointed out, though. America didn’t open his eyes as the chair was tilted back, where America was laid down. America felt something poke his wrist, and pretty quickly, he was asleep.

Chapter Text

When America woke up, there was significantly less pain in his leg. He looked down, and there was a small place with stitches, but it seemed almost too small for the wound. America jumped a little when he heard a voice.

WHO: “It’s a good thing you woke up today. Otherwise, you’d miss United Nations’ meeting to figure out what to do with you and your brother. Again. She’s already had to reschedule twice because of you being unconscious.”

America: “oh…”

America took a deep breath. He reached into where he thought his pocket would be, but he couldn’t find what he was looking for.

America: “WHO. Did you take my sunglasses?”

WHO: “Yes. It isn’t good to be wearing them for a long-“

America glared at WHO.

America: “Then can you dim the lights? Or turn them off? Or, just- something?!”

America used his hand to try and block the light to his eyes. He could feel the eyes staring at him.

WHO: “I’m not going out of my way to help you.”

America: “Isn’t that exactly what you did by taking my sunglasses? Except you didn’t help. You just made it worse. I wouldn’t have to ask if you didn’t take them!”

America then just sighed. He tried to stand up, but he was stopped.

WHO: “America, you’re fucking stupid. Don’t stand up. You need to use crutches for a day, based on how quickly you are healing.”

America huffed. He glared at WHO.

America: “Then can you give me some?”

WHO gave America some crutches. America took them, and he managed to make it to the meeting room. He quickly realized it must be early for the meeting. America made his way to United Nations’ office. America struggled to open the door, but after some messing around, he managed to do so.

America: “United Nations? I have a question for you.”

United Nations looked up from something she was working on.

United Nations: “Yes?”

America: “When is the meeting that was scheduled to figure out what to do with me and Confederate?”

United Nations paused.

United Nations: “I was planning on keeping you in my office until then. We don’t want anyone getting hurt or scared.

America: “I wouldn’t hurt anyone! Especially not on purpose! If anything, I would be the one getting hurt. I mean, I already can’t walk without crutches.”

United Nations: “I said anyone, which was including you. No matter what you or your brother did, I’m hoping to end this peacefully.”

America sighed and turned his head away. After a few seconds, he looked back. He looked back after a few seconds.

America: “Should I just… stand over there?”

United Nations raised an eyebrow, before her eyes widened.

United Nations: “Oh! Wait, let me get you a chair. You probably shouldn’t stand for that long.”

America nodded. He stood there, still in the doorway. There was a feeling that something was missing, and there was a faint memory of… someone? It felt like they weren’t there, at least not truly. Everything else about the memory was pretty clear, but not the person. And why was he feeling like something was missing?! God, he hated how he worked sometimes. America shook his head to clear his head. United Nations had come back.

United Nations: “What do you mean no? I just told you that I brought the chair.”

America looked up quickly.

America: “I’m sorry! I didn’t see you. I was lost in thoughts, and I just wanted to clear my head. I’ll sit down.”

America used the crutches to maneuver his way over to the chair in the corner.  He managed to sit down, but there was some struggle from him. America leaned his head against that wall. He saw a glimpse of someone who was in a separate room, but either the room was too small for them, or they were just standing near the doorway, because the person was standing with a little bit sticking out of the room. America had a flicker of familiarity from the person’s stance, but he just couldn’t make it out. America decided to try something.

America: “Hello? Do I know you? You look somewhat familiar…”

The person turned around. They were fully red, as America could tell before, and the person seemed somewhat masculine. The person had a black eyepatch on his right eye, and there was a yellow symbol in it. The person’s hair was mostly red, but there was a small part of it that was blonde. It was almost the same color as America’s own dyed hair. There was also a small leaf in part of the person’s hair. Weird, America thought. It was almost the same as the leaves America kept around his head from someone… actually, he couldn’t quite remember who. Maybe his brain was actually becoming like the previous president’s. But no, maybe it wasn’t. He could remember everything else pretty well. It was just that he forgot a person or two or maybe in lots of memories it’s like one person’s missing. Anyway, the person. The person was tall; almost as tall as United Nations, actually, and United Nations was pretty tall. The person’s one visible eye widened. His voice was quiet, yet not too quiet to not understand.

Person: “America?”

America: “I’m taking that as I do know you. Well, I’m sorry, but I don’t really remember you. What’s your name?”

Person: “You don’t remember me? Okay then… I’m Soviet.”

America focused for a little bit. He then gasped and jumped up a little. Well, not out of the chair, but he was sitting up straighter. His eyes were wide and he was smiling a little.

America: “I remember something! You’re the guy that everyone said was dead! I can finally tell Britain that I don’t forget what he said!”

Soviet’s expression darkened slightly. He turned away from America. America tilted his head.

America: “Soviet? Are you mad at me? Do you not like me or something? Is it because I am forgetful a lot of the time?”

America’s voice got slightly higher pitched closer to the end. His shoulders moved up, even though he hadn’t even gotten a response. Soviet looked back at America.

Soviet: “What happened to you. You remembered everything before.”

America: “Before? Before what?”

Once again, there was no response from Soviet. America sighed and looked downwards. He closed his eyes, only to open them again and let out a yelp when he almost fell off the chair. America almost shoved his hands against the wall. He ended up panting.

America: “shit…”

America looked up to find Soviet staring at him, only for the other man to quickly look away. America raised an eyebrow, but he didn’t question it. America looked at United Nations.

America: “United Nations, why is there a random person in here who is apparently supposed to be dead?”

United Nations looked back at America.

United Nations: “You tell me. He said that you are the reason he’s alive.”

America: “What?!”

America glared at Soviet. He saw a glimpse of a necklace. It was the same one that America had on, and America knew that the necklace America had on was keeping him alive, and that it was made by him, so… after a bit, America calmed down. America then tensed up. A memory was practically shoved in his head.

[———————————————————]

America ran into a dark alleyway. He thought he had never ran so fast in his life. He wasn’t certain that what he heard was true, but he couldn’t help himself. America saw a lump against the wall. He ran to it, and just like America had been told, there he was, a dying Soviet Union. America stared at Soviet for a few seconds, before taking off his own necklace. America knew what this would do, but at least Soviet would be alive still. America put the necklace on Soviet, making sure that the light blue four pointed star was close enough to Soviet’s body that it would work correctly. America then stood up. He looked down at Soviet one last time.

America: “Soviet, I love you… I know you can’t hear me, but I needed to tell you…”

America quickly turned his head towards the street to make sure that no one had heard him, and once he was sure, he ran out of the alleyway. America made his way to the United Nations headquarters to tell at least United Nations that Soviet was dead. They needed to believe him. America put a smile on his face and pushed his sunglasses down to cover his now teary eyes.

[———————————————————]

America stared at Soviet. America’s mouth was slightly open. America shook his head quickly and shut his mouth. He looked over at United Nations and saw her staring at him. America looked between her and Soviet before speaking.

America: “Why are you looking at me like that?”

United Nations’ expression softened a little.

United Nations: “I mean, you were just staring at USSR for about five minutes. I was concerned. I’m not so sure about him, though.”

America’s eyes widened.

America: “I was? Well, I’m sorry Soviet. I didn’t mean to stare at you. I just… got lost in thought.”

America tried smiling, but it looked somewhat fake. He was fidgeting a lot. Not that it was unusual for him to do that.

Soviet: “You’re lying, America. What was that really about.”

America looked a bit like a deer in headlights for a few seconds. He gave in though.

America: “I just remembered something important that I had forgotten for a long time.”

Soviet: “And what was that memory?”

America looked at the wall.

America: “It was of when I gave you the thing that kept you alive after your country fell. I had forgotten about it.”

Soviet didn’t respond. He turned away from America.

America: “Hey! Why are you ignoring me? Are you mad at me?”

Soviet looked back at America. America couldn’t tell what Soviet was feeling.

Soviet: “I want you to leave me alone.”

America: “oh. Okay.”

America leaned against the back of the chair. America grabbed the crutches. He looked at United Nations. America started fidgeting with his fingers again. He didn’t want to wait in a silent with someone who obviously didn’t like him.

America: “United Nations, can you start the meeting?”

United Nations: “No, America.”

America: “Please?”

United Nations: “United States of America.”

America: “Okay, okay, I’ll stop asking.”

America looked at the ground. He was using his finger to tap his other arm, and the leg that wasn’t injured was moving up and down. America yawned, but he made sure to keep it quiet. He closed his eyes and tried to fall asleep. He felt something poke his leg. And again. And then on his wound. America yelped in pain and opened his eyes. He looked in the direction of the thing poking him, but he didn’t see anything. He moved his leg to the other side of the chair. America leaned his head against the wall and tried to fall asleep again.

America couldn’t get his mind to stop. Why does Soviet not like me? Is it because I made sure he stayed alive? Did he not want help? Or does he just not like me?” America thought.

Chapter Text

America flinched when he heard United Nations speak.

United Nations: “I’m starting the meeting now. Come on, America, and you, USSR. You’re both needed here.”

America maneuvered to stand up with the crutches. America followed United Nations. His eyes kept glancing around him. He couldn’t shake the vibe that someone was staring at him. He even felt a breath on his neck at one point. America had looked around quickly when he felt that, and he had been weirded out, especially since Soviet, who was the only one who would have done it, had been close to United Nations.

Eventually, they all made it to the meeting room. America sat down in his designated seat. He saw that Soviet didn’t sit down, and instead was just standing near United Nations.

America felt a wave of fear wash over him. He looked around him to try and find what caused it. He couldn’t find anything. America felt a buzz go through the tables, and he was confused. He looked around, and he saw a familiar phone case. When he spoke, it was to himself.

America: “Is that my phone?”

America looked at it for a while, before he whispered to the person next to him.

America: “Hey, can you help me get my phone?”

America saw the person next to him nod. America knew that there was probably a good reason why his phone was going off. He waited until he got his phone, and he secretly turned it on. He froze. America kept looking through his phone, and he saw something else that made him both angry and also sad. America shook his head. He sighed. He couldn’t shake the fear off. America put his phone into his pocket. He heard United Nations call him up.

United Nations: “America, I need you to come up here. I want you to explain your point of view.”

America stood up, using the crutches, and made his way to the front of the meeting room. America stood there for a while, before he started tearing up. He looked at a few of the people in the room, especially Ukraine and Palestine. America tried to start speaking.

America: “I- I’m sorry. I’m so sorry! I don’t support anything my country is doing! I can’t control my president anymore. I’m not the one in control of my country. Everything this man does to my people or anyone else is against almost everything I stand for. When he stopped funding Ukraine, for example, or funded Israel more. I just want to make it clear that I don’t want this, and that I am more than just my government. The citizens I represent are like my children. I want to do something to stop people from suffering, no matter where they’re from.”

America was trying not to cry, but by the end, he definitely was. America wiped his tears. He didn’t leave, though. He wasn’t sure if he was supposed to or not. America felt someone grab him from behind, and America turned around really quickly. He saw Soviet, and Soviet was trying to… comfort him? Maybe? America couldn’t tell. America’s wings twitched up a little, but he didn’t push Soviet away. America realized that he had calmed down quite a bit. Soviet was probably helping.

United Nations: “America, since you’ve taken notice of USSR, I would like you to explain why he is still alive and not like most other fallen countries.”

America’s eyes widened. He fiddled with his own necklace a little before speaking.

America: “Well… My memory isn’t the best right now. I can’t remember things all that well. I’ve been told that I should remember a lot from my time with him, but I don’t remember pretty much anything with him. I do know how he is alive, but other than that, I can’t remember anything else.”

United Nations: “And how is he alive? Anything else isn’t that important right now.”

America: “So, I have this ability to heal, and if I am willing to give up my ability for a year, I can make a necklace that keeps the person wearing it alive as long as it is close to them and they are wearing it. I must have made one for myself, because I had taken the necklace I had been wearing and put it on Soviet when he looked like he was dying, at least if my memory is working light, and he is alive now. I know I made for myself, because this is what it looks like.”

America then had a question, but it was for Soviet, and he didn’t want to ask it in front of everyone. He just stood there. America looked back at United Nations. United Nations sighed. She closed her eyes.

United Nations: “I’m sure a lot of us need some time to think over this, so America, you can sit down. And, USSR, you can get a chair and go into your alphabetical spot.”

America made his way back to his spot. He was getting better at using the crutches, which he was pretty glad about. America didn’t let go of the crutches. He looked up when he heard a chair being moved near him. That’s when he remembered that Soviet’s name was similar in alphabetical order. He looked back down, and he tried to relax a little. That didn’t happen.

[———————————————————]

Thirteen Colonies was standing next to British Empire, her face void of any emotion. She didn’t pay much attention when the other adult walked in. She just stood there, at least until she noticed that there was someone waving to her. At first, she thought that the person was an adult, until she saw how their body was more child like than that of an adult.

Kid: “Hi! What’s your name?”

Thirteen Colonies glanced at British Empire without moving her head. She looked back at the kid. Thirteen Colonies didn’t want to risk speaking.

Kid: “Well, if you’re not going to talk, then I’ll just talk at you. When I grow up, I’m going to call myself something different than what I’m currently called. My dad doesn’t mind!”

Thirteen Colonies raised her eyebrow a little. She looked at the person speaking to British Empire, and she recalled something about the person being called Russian Empire. She looked at the kid in a different light. This kid probably knew two different languages already, when the kid seemed younger than she probably seemed. Not that she was young. She just looked like she was.

Thirteen Colonies felt her wrist be grabbed and she looked at British Empire.

British Empire: “Look at one of my best colonies. She’s very obedient, like girls like her should be. A few of my other colonies are of more use than her, but she is still good, especially with how well she listens.”

Thirteen Colonies looked away from British Empire with her eyes, but she looked back very quickly. She wanted nothing more than to be in anything except for that stupid dress. She always wanted to wear her brother’s clothes, but the last time she had done that, she had gotten screamed at. She didn’t trust British Empire to not go further than that if she tried anything this time.

Thirteen Colonies heard the kid ask British Empire a question.

Kid: “Hey, can me and your daughter go play in the other room? I haven’t been brought to a meeting in a while, mainly because my dad thinks I’ll find them boring.”

British Empire’s face hardened for a few seconds, before he looked at Russian Empire and smiled at the kid.

British Empire: “Sure. Go ahead, Thirteen Colonies. I will come get you when the meeting is done.”

Thirteen Colonies felt the grip on her wrist go away, and she waited a few seconds before following the kid to a different room. She stood in the room with the kid for quite a bit of time before speaking. Her voice was soft and quiet.

Thirteen Colonies: “You said that you wanted to be called something else when you grew up. Could you tell me?”

Kid: “Sure! I have a few things, but the thing that stayed the same with all of them has been Soviet, so call me that!”

Thirteen Colonies sighed. She spoke quietly to herself.

Thirteen Colonies: “I wish I could change my name… British Empire doesn’t like me doing anything that isn’t just doing what he wants.”

Soviet: “Do you want to tell me about it?”

Thirteen Colonies: “It’s just… When I tried wearing something that doesn’t make me feel really upset, like this dress does, he got mad at me…”

Thirteen Colonies felt Soviet hug her, and she tensed up. Thirteen Colonies soon relaxed though. She didn’t know that touch could make her feel happy, instead of just the cold, controlling touch that she often got from British Empire.

[———————————————————]

America woke up to being shaken awake. He lifted his head, and he sighed when he noticed that his head hurt. America looked around and saw that there was no one else around. He looked in the direction of who had shaken his shoulder, and he saw United Kingdom. America tensed up at first, before he took a deep breath and stood up. He leaned against the table.

America: “Yes, father?”

United Kingdom: “I just wanted to make sure that you weren’t left behind. Come on, you’re staying with me for a while.”

America grabbed the crutches and followed United Kingdom. He kept his head lowered. America kept giving glances towards United Kingdom. He knew there was always a room for him at United Kingdom’s house, and it was even pretty nice, as America had been in it when he was visiting France, but he always felt like he was being watched at all times when he was there. America stopped walking when he noticed that United Kingdom was staring at him.

America: “Did you say something to me?”

United Kingdom: “I asked you what was wrong.”

America: “Oh, dad, nothing! I’m fine.”

America’s foot started to move a little.

United Kingdom: “I can tell that you’re lying. Just tell me. I don’t want you lying to me.”

America tensed up.

America: “Okay, then… you make me on edge. Not because of anything you did, but… you remind me of British Empire.”

America looked away from United Kingdom. He felt a hand on his shoulder. He was led out to a car. America sat down in the backseat despite being led towards the front one. He leaned back against the seat and stared out the window. His mind started to calm down a little.

Chapter Text

America only really payed attention when he felt the car slowing down, and he knew where they were. America sighed. He looked down towards the seat of the car. America spoke for the first time in the car ride.

America: “So, father… did you mess with my room at all while I’ve been… gone?”

United Kingdom looked back at America.

United Kingdom: “No, I left it alone. I don’t really mind whatever you do in your own room.”

America’s eyes widened a little, and he looked up at United Kingdom. He then relaxed and smiled a little. America unbuckled himself and opened the car door. America looked back at the seat, but then he remembered that the only thing he had on him was his phone and the clothes on him. America showed the wings on his back to make himself feel like he had more with him. He made his way out towards the front of the car.

America looked back towards United Kingdom. He saw United Kingdom going into the trunk. America made his way over to the back of the car to see what was holding United Kingdom up. America saw what was in the trunk, and he froze.

America: “Dad, where did you get all of that?”

United Kingdom smiled at America.

United Kingdom: “United Nations gave it to me. If you want to know how she got it, you would have to ask her.”

America: “oh. okay.”

America tried to grab a bag, but he couldn’t reach it before United Kingdom spoke.

United Kingdom: “No, no, no. Just let me carry it all. That or I’ll get one of my employees to take care of it.”

America: “Fine.”

America turned around and made his way towards the house. He waited at the door for United Kingdom to go over. He jumped a little when the door was opened from the inside. He looked up and saw Australia.

America: “Oh. It’s just you. I thought you were… someone else.”

Australia smiled.

Australia: “I heard Dad come back, so I came down here. I didn’t expect to see you here!”

America nodded. He stood there for a bit, before he felt himself get physically picked up.

America: “AHHH! Put me down, Australia!”

Australia just grabbed the crutches America had been using and chuckled.

Australia: “Oh, come on, bro! None of us have seen you in so long, so you can’t blame me for wanting to say hi!”

America just sighed. He gave up on struggling to get out of Australia’s grip. It wasn’t out of malice, at least that was what America told himself. He was still somewhat wary, despite knowing Australia well.

Australia carried America to America’s room. America huffed out some of the air he had in him when he was thrown onto the bed. He froze. America curled up and started shaking. He felt someone shake his shoulder, but he didn’t respond. His breathing got faster. At first, he felt two hands on his shoulders, but they went away. Soon, two sets of footsteps came back. America’s head quickly turned towards the door. He saw Australia and United Kingdom. He turned his head back towards his legs, which were now against his chest, and he hid his face. His wings wrapped around himself.

America heard one set of footsteps leave, and then two sets came back. He didn’t look up this time. He heard a sigh and then someone shaking his shoulders. America looked up and saw Canada. He smiled and tightly hugged her, now crying, but Canada pushed him off. America tensed up and then sat back down.

Canada: “I promised you that I would get him to calm down, not that I would deal with him being clingy as fuck.”

United Kingdom sighed.

United Kingdom: “If that’s what it would take to calm him down, you should at least let him. He’s your brother!”

Canada: “And? I don’t want to even be in the same house as him, let alone let him touch me.”

United Kingdom glared at Canada.

United Kingdom: “I’ll deal with you when America calms down.”

United Kingdom crouched down in front of America, who was curled into a ball again. He put his hand onto America’s shoulder. America looked up, and he flinched back when he saw who it was. America tried to push United Kingdom away, but all he did was give a light hit. America sniffled, and he closed his eyes tightly. He felt United Kingdom’s hand mess with his hair, and he lowered his head away. America brought the wings on his head out and covered his head.

United Kingdom: “Calm down. I won’t hurt you, I promise. I just want you to calm down. I’m not British Empire.”

America lowered the wings on his head, if only slightly. His voice was high pitched.

America: “How do I know that you aren’t just lying? You could just be lying!”

United Kingdom: “Look at my flag.”

United Kingdom pointed to his face.

United Kingdom: “You can see the difference. It’s slight, but it’s there. There’s red in the ‘x’ in it. There wasn’t with British Empire.”

America started to relax more.

America: “But I thought I could trust Australia… but I can’t!”

United Kingdom raised an eyebrow.

United Kingdom: “Why?”

America: “He threw me down like they did.”

United Kingdom: “And who do you mean by ‘they’?”

America shuddered. The wings on his head covered his head again.

America: “The agents. In my country. I was just trying to help someone who didn’t speak English, and they grabbed both of us. There were a lot of other people there.”

United Kingdom: “Okay, I get it. I won’t ask anything else. Can you let Australia explain why he did what he did?”

America thought for a bit, but he nodded. He lowered the wings on his head, and he eventually just let them disappear again.

Australia: “I didn’t mean to scare you, America. I had just done what I had done to you before, and you had reacted differently when I done it then. I didn’t know it would remind you of that.”

America’s eyes widened. He looked down, but his wings on his back lowered a little. He seemed to be calming down. America looked at Canada.

America: “Canada… can you please tell me what I did?”

Canada: “And why do you not know? It’s pretty obvious.”

America: "I haven’t been in control of my country since Trump came into office. I said this. I don’t represent him.”

Canada: “You’re still too close to him for my liking.”

America: “I can’t control what country I represent! I didn’t ask for this!”

America ended up sobbing again. He heard a sigh that sounded like it was from United Kingdom, and then two footsteps getting quieter. America felt himself get hugged. America looked up and saw Australia. He looked back towards the ground, but he didn’t push Australia away.

Australia: “America, do you want some food? If-“

America: “Yes!”

Australia: “Okay, I’ll ask Dad.”

America tried to stand up, and he realized that he could actually stand up without the crutches. He smiled. America started walking as quickly as he could to the dinner table. He stopped before he could sit down. America looked at Australia.

America: “Do you all have specific seats that you sit in? I kinda forgot, since it’s been a while since I was here…”

Australia shook his head. America sat down in the seat nearest to him, and he smiled. America started kicking his feet, and moving his head as if he was listening to music that wasn’t there.

Australia: “America, what are you doing.”

America: “Waiting for food! I am so hungry.”

Australia shrugged and sat down two seats away from America.

Australia: “You’re weird.”

America ignored Australia. He slowly stopped kicking his feet and moving his head. America frowned and looked at the table.

America: “Do you know when food will be done?”

Australia: “No.”

America: “Okay…”

America frowned. He jumped when he heard his phone ring. Not looking at who was calling him, he picked up his phone.

Russia: “Fuck you.”

America pulled the phone away from his head and saw that the call had ended. He gave a very confused look at said phone.

Australia: “Who called you?”

America: “Russia.”

Australia: “What did he say?”

America: “He just said fuck you, in English, and hung up.”

Australia: “He didn’t speak in Russian?”

America: “No. I don’t know why he didn’t. Maybe he wants me to be sure of what he was telling me.”

Australia: “Maybe.”

America’s phone then rang again. America sighed. He looked at who was calling and frowned. He picked up anyway.

America: “Why did you call me back.”

Russia: “I was told to say sorry.”

America: “You don’t have to act like you like me. I don’t like you either.”

Russia: “I didn’t choose to say sorry.”

America: “Just leave me alone.”

America ended the call. Leaving the phone on the table, he stood up.

America: “I’m going to go ask Dad about food.”

America walked out of the room. He went to the kitchen, and he saw it looking like no one had been in it to do anything but clean. America sighed, and he started looking around. The only things he could find were ingredients. It made sense to him. United Kingdom never had anything easy to make.

America walked back out to the table, and he saw Canada messing with his phone. America frowned.

America: “Canada, can I have my phone back?”

Canada looked at America.

Canada: “I’m trying to figure out why you suck.”

America: “Will you seriously quit with thinking that I support the things that my country is saying or doing? Because I genuinely don’t support it. I would be supporting something that would harm me and the people I treat as my children.”

Canada seemed somewhat surprised. She gave America a look.

Canada: “I know how stupid you are. You would probably do that because you couldn’t understand what would happen to you.”

America crossed his arms.

America: “I’m not as stupid as you think I am.”

Canada: “So you admit that you are stupid.”

America: “Did I even do anything that made you suddenly hate me? I wasn’t even able to see the sun for a little more than five months because of the same person who has been pretending to be me and making me seem like a dick!”

Canada: “You said that you wanted to make me your first state.”

America: “That wasn’t me. That was Confederate. As I have been saying.”

Canada thought for a while before finally speaking.

Canada: “Fine. I’ll believe you. I still don’t trust you, however.”

America sighed. He walked closer to Canada.

America: “Can I please have my phone back?”

Canada: “No.”

America: “Why?”

Canada: “Because I don’t trust you, and because you seem to be impacted by things in your country, as all of us are.”

America: “It sounds like you don’t hate me as much anymore.”

Canada: “…Shut up.”

America smiled. He then noticed that Australia wasn’t in the room, and the smile faded.

America: “Do you know where Australia went?”

Canada: “To find Father.”

America: “Oh, okay.”

America looked away. He then realized that he was less on edge, even if he still was. He then noticed, soon after, that the lights weren’t the really bright ones. He smiled a little to himself. America sat down in the seat he had sat in before he put his head down. America heard a phone being called, but it was probably declined, so he just ignored it. America heard footsteps, so he looked up.