Matthew had worried, hating himself for worrying about someone that treated him like dirt, while at the same time he was relieved that he didn't have to face him. Alfred sat closer than before (not that anyone noticed), and often their shoulders touched.
What people did notice was that Ludwig was late.
When the German did arrive (three hours late), he muttered something about Gilbert and "projectile vomiting."
That was about the time the meeting descended into chaos.
Arthur had started it, cackling loudly and cursing the unfortunate German, all the while talking about spells and piracy and other mysterious (and dangerous) sounding topics. Francis was looking at Arthur with something akin to awe and horror, and nations around the room had started to forget about anything related to work as they fought, hugged, and disappeared into various closets.
Matthew shrank back into his seat and watched the happening in detached silence.
It didn't last long.
Alfred started to prod him with a pencil, and when he finally looked over to glare, the American grinned.
"Wanna go see a movie?"
Matthew stared. He didn't say anything, but Alfred took his silence for a "yes" and dragged him out of the room.
Sure, he felt slightly guilty (he had the feeling that Gilbert's sudden illness had something to do with him).
And he felt a bit overwhelmed (Alfred had that kinda of effect on people).
Invisible (20/20)
(Anonymous) 2010-02-01 03:31 am (UTC)(link)Gilbert hadn't returned for the meetings.
Matthew had worried, hating himself for worrying about someone that treated him like dirt, while at the same time he was relieved that he didn't have to face him. Alfred sat closer than before (not that anyone noticed), and often their shoulders touched.
What people did notice was that Ludwig was late.
When the German did arrive (three hours late), he muttered something about Gilbert and "projectile vomiting."
That was about the time the meeting descended into chaos.
Arthur had started it, cackling loudly and cursing the unfortunate German, all the while talking about spells and piracy and other mysterious (and dangerous) sounding topics. Francis was looking at Arthur with something akin to awe and horror, and nations around the room had started to forget about anything related to work as they fought, hugged, and disappeared into various closets.
Matthew shrank back into his seat and watched the happening in detached silence.
It didn't last long.
Alfred started to prod him with a pencil, and when he finally looked over to glare, the American grinned.
"Wanna go see a movie?"
Matthew stared. He didn't say anything, but Alfred took his silence for a "yes" and dragged him out of the room.
Sure, he felt slightly guilty (he had the feeling that Gilbert's sudden illness had something to do with him).
And he felt a bit overwhelmed (Alfred had that kinda of effect on people).
But maybe things would be better from now on.
Maybe.