There was not a lot that escaped Denmark's bored gaze as it swept over the room. Not the sketches on Japan's paper, not the fresh flower in Hungary's hair, not the the sweat dripping from Germany's forehead.
And not the angel with the blue and white spotted tie, sitting a few seats away from him.
Finland was just as bored as everyone else, as far as Denmark could tell. He chewed the tip of his pen, stared dully out over the room, and checked the time just about every ten minutes. Still he managed to look oh so serene and divine, with fair hair falling over his forehead, just brushing down in front of those big, violet eyes, framed by light eyelashes.
England was doing his presentation at the moment, his thick voice becoming a fuzz of unclear sounds in Denmark's ears. It's not like it was important anyway. Or maybe it was, he hadn't listened closely enough to actually have an opinion on the matter.
Instead, he had just settled on watching Finland – as the man gazed out the window, brushed hair from his eyes, cracked his knuckles and yawned.
When the meeting finished, Denmark caught up with Finland outside the door, in the yellow light of sunset, just as the small man said goodbye to Sweden and Iceland at the door.
“Alright Sve, Ice, good night,” he smiled, bright and cheerful, even after so many hours of monotone voices talking about boring things. The tall man grunted in response, giving Finland that grimace that Denmark had figured out was supposed to be a smile. Iceland smiled as well, running a hand through his platinum hair as he said goodbye.
“See you tomorrow!” the Finn said as he turned to walk in one direction, while Sweden and Iceland went in the opposite.
Wait. They weren't even staying at the same hotel? Iceland he could understand, since he didn't enjoy staying in the same hotel as Norway, being in a phase where he felt embarrassed about his brother's affections. But Sweden? He and Finland always chose the same hotel.
Denmark caught up with Finland, placing a hand on his shoulder, the fabric of Finland's jacket rough under his fingers.
“Hey Fin.” He fired off what he believed to be his best charmer smile as he walked beside the Finn, “You're staying at the hotel down the street, right?”
Finland turned his head swiftly, the warm summer breeze catching his hair as he smiled brightly at Denmark.
“Hello, I didn't see you there.” Finland's smile was so sweet, so genuine and it sent sparks through Denmark's body. “Yeah, I am. You too?”
“Mhm. Where's Sverige going?”
Finland looked confused, “To his hotel?”
“You guys don't stay together?”
“Why would we?” Finland grimaced in confusion. Denmark just looked at him, waiting for the Finn to understand. When the realization dawned to him, his chin dropped and he smiled, “Oh. Oh, you think we're together!”
“Well,” Denmark turned his head, giving Finland his full attention, “Aren't you?”
“Gosh no,” Finland laughed, airily and peaceful.
“Having a little lovers' spat?” Denmark grinned.
“We haven't been together since 1809.”
“Oh. But you still always stay at the same hotel. And you hang out all the time.”
“Oh, we just tend to pick the same,” the Finn kept smiling at him, “We have similar tastes. And we're still good friends.”
“Oh.”
Denmark was pretty much speechless. He had always just assumed the two had reunited and gone on with their merry little way, acting as an old married couple, even now, when they both were independent and free countries, spending the weekends together, raising Sealand and Hanatamago together, you know, doing just about everything together.
But then again, it made sense. Denmark hadn't been with Norway for an equally long time. Sure, they were close, maybe even best friends, sure, but the romance and passion had kind of died without the adrenaline of war and a shared bed to return to every night. It seemed logical for the same thing to happen to Finland and Sweden. Besides, Denmark had heard from Estonia that Finland and Russia got really close during those old days, and if Denmark knew Sweden right, the intimidating, but actually quite sensitive, man would have had a hard time getting over that.
“You seem surprised,” Finland spoke up, interrupting Denmark's thoughts.
“I am. I just kind of assumed-”
“You're not alone,” Finland laughed and kicked a small stone on the asphalt, “If you only knew how many times I've had to explain this to people.”
“It's not really strange though. The two of you were really good together.”
“'Were' is the keyword here,” Finland said, voice turning a bit more somber, “Back in the days, it was the battle and the power that drove Sweden. And I could be content being below him. It was kind of exciting. Now though, we're equal,” he smiled, a bit sadly, “It's not really the same.”
“I know what you mean,” Denmark's eyes sought out the darkening sky, “You don't really get the same rush from democratic elections as you did from armed battles.”
The atmosphere was getting strained, because the two had been on opposing sides in so many wars, Denmark had beaten Finland to the ground, had threatened to hurt him so badly just to get Sweden to suffer. In return, Finland had fought for his life against Denmark, to defend Swedish causes, to defend Sweden's pride. The hate that had brewed between Denmark and Sweden had seeped into the minds of their underlings as well and it had taken years for them to get over all the grudges.
It was long gone though, and forgiven – but never quite forgotten.
“Well,” Finland cut through the silence, sounding just as cheerful as usual. He didn't seem to think about the old days – and if he did, he didn't let it show. Instead he smiled widely at Denmark. “We're here. What room do you stay in?”
“512. Norway's in 514, so yeah. You?”
“306. You and Norway booked together?”
Denmark scratched the back of his head awkwardly, “Yeah. Just a habit. It's easier for the both of us.”
“I see.”
“We're not together,” Denmark blurted out. Finland chuckled.
“I didn't say anything.”
“I'm serious. I just thought you should know.”
“Alright,” Finland laughed again. “I'll see you later for dinner?”
“Ah, yes, sure.”
The five of them had made a habit to go out to eat and drink at some fancy restaurant every time they were at world meetings. It was really a good way to keep updated on everyone's business and keep contact, even during busy times.
Finland's laughter rang in Denmark's ears as he returned to his room. Throwing himself on his bed, he wondered, why he had all these butterflies swarming his stomach. For heaven's sake, he had been living for over a millennia. He had been all over the world. He had conquered, he had traded, he had waged war and he had made peace, he had invaded and he had been invaded, he had loved and he had hated. He had had countless fair men and women at his mercy, and yet, he was starting to develop a crush on the small Finn.
Sure, he had always found Finland attractive, and lately he might have been thinking about him more than was normal, but never before had the Finn left him feeling giddy afterwards.
Maybe he had these feelings just because this was his chance to take what had always been Sweden's, but that felt highly unlikely, as the two were close friends nowadays, the only grudge still there between the two old enemies being the sport rivalry and the occasional petty insults.
Besides, it wasn't an urge to have, it wasn't a burning, raging excitement pulsing in his veins, but rather an urge to fall in love, and to be loved back, maybe.
But there was a problem Denmark could see clearly. Even if Finland didn't harbour any lingering feelings for Sweden, Denmark had seen the glances Sweden would send Finland. There was no doubt in the Dane's mind that the large man still felt something for his neighbor in east.
And if Denmark could have a chance at Finland's love, then so could Sweden.
And so, even if it didn't start out as it, this would become a battle, between Sweden and Denmark, like the battles for Norway, Skåne and Gotland. At least Denmark was sure of this.
Though this time, the battle was for Finland – and this time, Denmark wouldn't load his guns with bullets, but with good, old-fashioned charm.
-
It was customary for the Nordics to at least once every world meeting to have dinner together, all five of them. This time was no exception.
The restaurant was small and cozy, with a warm atmosphere. The five men shared a small table in the back. Denmark sat on the side furthest from the door, with Norway and Iceland on either side of him. Finland sat opposite of him, next to Sweden, the two not forced to be quite as cosy together, but still brushed against each other every time they moved to grab food off their plates.
“Ya' have somethin' 'ere,” Sweden mumbled to Finland, tapping the side of his mouth to notify the smaller man of the sauce on his face.
“Wha- Oh.” Finland wiped the wrong side of his mouth. Sweden chuckled, grabbed his own napkin and wiped the sauce off the Finn's face.
“Oh,” Finland blushed a bit, but then beamed up, “Thanks, Sve.”
“Yer welcome,” Sweden muttered, returning the smile.
It made Denmark's stomach clench a bit, to see those two being all cute and flirty. If Denmark would ever try something like that with Norway, even during the time they were together, he would most likely have gotten knocked on the head. And Iceland would most likely have laughed out loud at the Dane's pathetic attempts.
But Finland on the other hand, Finland would certainly just blush as prettily as he did with Sweden, muttering out some embarrassed Finnish before returning to his sunny, happy self. That happy self that glowed, eyes sparkling, just radiating kindness.
“What're you doing, idiot?” Norway drew Denmark from his daydreaming with a firm elbow to the ribs. Denmark grabbed his side and groaned.
“Just thinking, that's all.”
“Well, what do you want?” Norway continued, “We're having a last drink.”
“The beer I had before was good,” Denmark mumbled, still in pain. Norway had sharp elbows and a habit of aiming them at Denmark's sides, usually resulting in bruises over his ribs.
As they had their last drink, Denmark was unusually quiet. He stared over the table, at Finland who was talking to Sweden, quite enthusiastically. Sweden smiled and nodded at the Finn who led the conversation with a cheery voice and a silly smile that testified the alcohol's effect on him – tipsy enough to be happy and carefree but not drunk enough to lose control and threaten people with whatever knife that happened to be closest.
Getting up from their seats, Finland stumbled slightly, but before he could trip over his own feet again and fall, Sweden caught his arm and pulled him up, coming a bit close to the small man for Denmark's liking.
“Thanks, Sve,” he rubbed his eyes and yawned, “I guess I'm a bit tired.” Sweden glared at him with a playful spark in his eyes. “Okay, so maybe I'm a bit tipsy too, so what?”
The tall man chuckled and turned to head towards the door, Norway following close behind. Iceland paid the check. The youngest of the five had insisted he'd pay, considering the others had treated him a lot of times when his economics were at absolute rock bottom. Denmark smiled at Finland as they were left alone at the table.
“I like the restaurant,” he said, trying to start up a conversation.
“At least they have good beer,” Finland shrugged, reaching for his jacket. Denmark laughed.
“You got that right.” His eyes sparkled a bit and he grinned, realizing that he too, had had just a tinge too much booze to consider it an innocent beer over lunch. “Then again, they always did have good beer around here.”
“Meh, I always preferred vodka, to be honest.”
Denmark was so unused to Finland's love for alcohol, so fascinated by it that the next thing out of his mouth slipped without him even commanding his lips to speak.
“You wanna do something tomorrow night?”
Oh shit.
“Like, grab a beer, hang out.”
“Don't we usually all go out to eat at these meetings?” Finland didn't look convinced. Or, you know, sure of what Denmark was even talking about.
“No, I meant just the two of us,” the Dane gulped, “Alone.”
“Ohh,” Finland drew out the syllable before his innocent face turned wicked, “Like a date.”
“No, not like a-”
What was he saying, of course he wanted a date with Finland.
“Yes, like a date.”
“Then you're going to have to treat me to something better than just beer.” Finland still smiled like that, wicked and looking just a bit intoxicated. “I'm not that cheap.”
Immediately feeling dumb, Denmark decided to turn the charm on. He had a date either way, so what did he have to worry about?
“Hey, I'm going to treat you better than that freaking Swede ever did,” he said as he took Finland's hand in his own, pressing a light kiss to it.
“I'm not even going to ask,” Iceland interrupted as he got back to the table to fetch his jacket. He walked past them swiftly, grabbing his jacket, and walking towards the door. “Anyone of you know where Sví and Nor went?”
“Not a clue,” Denmark answered, he and Finland also on their way out now that the moment was kind of ruined.
Heading back to his hotel, Finland chattering at his side, Denmark's stomach tingled a bit. This was going good.
-
A/N: Hello! Happy Valentines Day! Felt like I needed to contribute with something on Valentines Day, so this will have to do, since I was going to post the first part soon enough anyway.
Anyway, I hope OP and anyone who reads will enjoy! :D
This is wonderful. Your Den and your Fin and your Sve, oh, it's all so great. The way Den isn't really speaking with Sweden even though they aren't enemies anymore, the way he decides to go for Finland's heart, it's all so perfect.
Denmark knocked insistently at the Norwegian's door, waiting for a reply but instead receiving nothing but silence.
“I know you're in there, Nor. Don't pretend you don't hear me.”
Greeted with more silence, Denmark knocked again, rapping at the wood harder and faster.
“I'm not going away, sweetie,” he said, knowing that there were few things that annoyed Norway more than being called by ridiculous nicknames, “So you might as well let me in.”
Seven dull footsteps and a sharp unlocking of the door later, Norway stood in front of him, hands on his hips and trademark scowl on his lips.
“What do you want?”
“Does a guy need a reason to talk to his best friend?” Denmark grinned as he threw an arm around Norway's shoulders, slamming the door shut with his foot before he dragged Norway into the room again.
“If I say yes, will you go away?”
Being the truthful bastard he was, Denmark peered down at the Norwegian, smiling widely as he spoke, “Probably not.”
“Then, no, I suppose not. Now let me go.”
For once, Denmark did as he was told and removed his arm from Norway's shoulders and sat down on his friend's bed.
“Wow, your bed is really soft,” he exclaimed as he bounced lightly.
“Yes, very pleasing indeed,” Norway sighed, choosing to sit down on the sofa rather than next to the Dane on the bed. “Did you actually want something, or are you only here to jump on my bed?”
“Oh yeah,” Denmark smiled, “Do you know any good restaurants around this area?”
“May ask why you require this?”
“Well,” Denmark scratched the back of his head, “I'm kind of going on a date with Finland.”
“Oh. That was highly unexpected.”
“Yeah well, he's cute,” Denmark shot, “And I haven't gotten laid in years.”
“Please.” Norway rolled his eyes. “You always find some local human willing to have a one night stand.”
“I don't recall any one night stands, so they obviously didn't happen.”
The corner of Norway's mouth curved upwards slightly, “If you say so, idiot.”
“Anyway,” Denmark said, completely ignoring Norway's further teasing remarks. “Know any good restaurants?”
“Well, there's one a few blocks away that's pretty cosy.”
“Will it impress Finland? I have to prove to him I'm way better than that old Swedish bastard.”
“Why?” Norway deadpanned, resting his elbow on the arm of the sofa and his head in his hand.
“Well, don't tell anyone but,” Denmark said seriously and lowered his voice. The walls were thin. “I think he still wants Finland.”
Norway laughed. It was a very rare sound, but when the Norwegian laughed, it bubbled from his chest, sounding happy and carefree, not sarcastic and scornful.
“No,” he said, chuckles still erupting from his mouth, “No, I don't think so.”
“Why not?” Denmark was almost speechless. It was so scarce to hear Norway laugh. “He always hangs around him, and is like protective and takes care of him and stuff.”
“You mean like friends usually do?”
“You never do that for me.”
“That's because you're an idiot, and I enjoy seeing you fail.”
“That's mean.”
“Yes. Your point?”
“Never mind,” Denmark grinned. “So you think I should take him there?”
“If you want to.”
“Thanks Norway.” Denmark got up from the bed, heading for the door. “You were a lot of help.”
“Whatever.”
Denmark still didn't believe Sweden was over Finland, no matter what Norway said. He couldn't see Sweden's actions towards Finland as anything but romantically affectionate. Denmark talked extremely little to Sweden, mostly because of the Swede's silent nature, and Norway should be talking even less to Sweden, considering the both of them said pretty much nothing, ever. So what did he know?
Denmark got back to his room, picking out the only nice shirt he had brought and a pair of jeans to wear on the date. Sure, Finland had really seen him at both his best and worst, so there was really nothing for Denmark to prove. Still, he wanted to make the best impression possible, because after all, this was a first date.
That, and there was still the problem of Sweden present. And Sweden always dressed proper, so Denmark couldn't be worse.
But he decided not to think about his huge neighbor in west as he locked the door to his hotel room and headed two floors down to knock on Finland's door.
Finland looked as nice as always, wearing a thin, white t-shirt and a pale blue cardigan. His eyes sparkled and his hair was just the right amount of messy to seem like he didn't care but still looked gorgeous.
“Hello,” he greeted Denmark as he opened the door, a carefree smile plastered on his face.
“Hello,” Denmark took Finland's hand playfully, pressing a kiss to it, like he had done last night. Finland chuckled and let Denmark be just as cheesy as he wanted. When their eyes met again, Finland gave him a teasing smile.
“What a gentleman,” he stated simply as the two walked down the hallway, to the elevators.
“Anything for a lady,” Denmark teased back.
“Oh, no,” Finland whined and sighed heavily, “Not you too.”
“I'm kidding.”
“You better,” Finland pursed his lips, looking away from Denmark for a few moments before the both of the broke into laughter.
“I never really understood why Sweden always called you his wife,” Denmark mused, as they made their way outside, where the sun was low on the sky, casting a pale, yellow light over the city.
“Me neither,” Finland shrugged, “He's as gay as they come, so why he wanted his partner to be a woman is beyond me.”
Denmark hummed a low tune and turned his head towards the sun, “Nice weather.”
Finland smiled in return, eyes set on Denmark's cheerful face, “Mm, really nice.”
“So,” he continued, smiling and skipping a few steps ahead, “Where are we going?”
“Not a lady, and still you expect me to have everything planned,” Denmark sighed, winking at the Finn, “There's simply no pleasing you.”
Finland glared at Denmark through pale eyelashes, and the older chuckled; “I'm kidding.”
The two walked, side by side, in the late afternoon sun. Denmark wanted to take Finland's hand in his, wanted to feel the Finn's soft palm against his own, wanted to see him blush and look away in embarrassment, looking away, but not letting go of Denmark's hand.
He didn't take Finland's hand though. It was too early for that still, but if Denmark got his will through, he would be doing much more than holding Finland's hand, and soon. They were nations after all, and time didn't matter, because they had eternity to repay and atone, eternity to forgive and forget.
They reached the restaurant, chatting with low voices.
It was a small, but cozy restaurant, with crimson tablecloths and wooden chairs, and as they entered, they were greeted by a short, blonde woman who led them to their table, handed them their menus and assured a waiter would be with them in just a moment.
“So, what do you want?” Denmark peeked over the top of him menu at Finland, who was engrossed reading his, trying to decipher what the dishes were, as the menu was written in another language completely. Denmark poked at Finland's head with his own menu. “Earth to Finland.”
“Sorry, what?” Finland said, smiling sheepishly.
“What would my lady fancy this lovely evening?”
“Funny,” Finland grimaced. “Do they have steak?”
Denmark looked through the menu. “Yes.”
“Then that's what I'll have, thank you.”
Denmark placed their orders to the overly polite waiter, and Finland sat in silence, waiting for the man to leave before he spoke to Denmark again.
“So,” he began, “How did you find this place?”
“Nor suggested it.”
“Ah, he's been here before?”
“Probably.” Denmark leaned back in his seat, watching Finland intently.
The Finn was so cute. Denmark knew the smaller man had a major problem with being called cute, feminine or anything of the sort. And while he was not very feminine, face holding a delicate but boyish charm, he was indeed very cute and very sweet. Especially when his hair was ruffled, looking like he just got out of bed and wrapped in a baby blue cardigan.
No wonder Sweden liked him so much. Sweden had always had eye for cute things. Damn Swedish bast-
What then interrupted Denmark's train of thought was a soft pressure on his shin. He had drifted off in thought, and when he looked back at Finland, the soft and sweet look was replaced with something a bit more flirty. He leaned his head in his hand, eyes looking straight at Denmark as he dragged his foot up and down the Dane's leg.
Wide-eyed, Denmark stared at Finland for a moment, before he smiled, a genuine, but a bit teasing smile. He kicked of his own shoe, fumbling a bit before he could meet Finland half-way.
The Finn tilted his head curiously with a bright smile. Oh god, he was beautiful.
And then the waiter had to ruin their moment, bringing the food to their table, steak for Finland, and salmon for Denmark.
The Dane couldn't help but be a bit disappointed, not because the food was bad, no, quite the contrary, it was very good indeed. But Finland happily munching on his steak and potatoes unfortunately meant no more secret footsie under the table.
They spoke briefly between bites, topics ranging between the economical crisis and the situation in Syria, to history and the old golden ages. Finland was surprisingly easy to talk to, the conversation floating easily. Then again, this was not unexpected, as Finland for years had been forced to speak for not only himself but also for the brute he had once called husband.
Once the duo were finished, Denmark called for the check.
“So, how much?” Finland asked as he fumbled with his wallet.
“Don't worry about it,” Denmark smiled at him, setting the charm to 110%. Finland didn't seem amused though.
“I'm serious, Denmark,” he pushed. “I'm paying my part.”
Denmark shrugged. It didn't seem worth the trouble to insist on being a gentleman and paying everything himself. Besides, he didn't want Finland to get the impression that he was like Sweden and believed that Finland was a damsel in distress that needed saving at every opportunity possible. Finland obviously didn't like to be babied, so Denmark wouldn't baby him.
Besides, he wasn't made of money, and the food had not been cheap.
Leaving the restaurant, the sun had gone down behind the horizon, and Denmark and Finland walked in the light of the streetlights back to the hotel. Finland yawned and stretched, the pressure of a long day obviously getting to him.
“Tired?” Denmark asked, only getting an approving hum in response as they walked in through the doors of the hotel, entering the lobby and heading for the elevators.
Arriving at Finland's floor, Denmark said; “At least let me walk you to the door.”
Finland smiled and nodded.
“I had a great time today,” Finland said as he fished the key from his pocket.
“It was only dinner,” Denmark retreated, suddenly feeling modest and insecure in front of Finland's violet eyes.
“It was nice.”
A smile, tousled blonde hair, a hushed good night and a kiss to Denmark's cheek – and then Finland closed the door behind him, leaving the Dane wide-eyed in the hallway.
The warmth that filled Denmark's stomach spread out through his limbs, and he felt as if he was floating on small pink clouds as he went to bed that night.
-
A/N: Hello. :D Thank you for the kind comments! I am very happy there's people who enjoy my craptastic attempts at writing something that's not porn. Speaking of porn though, where does OP stand on the matter? I might include a sex scene at the very end, if OP does not mind, that is. :)
:D Nothing craptastic about this writing, anon! It's wonderful, and your Denmark voice is spot on. And Norway, pffft! So snarky, I just about died. And flirty!Finland is <3
can't wait to see more! (and I totally vote for a sex scene, and hopefully the OP will too)
And this fill is made of win, period. Good characterization, good grammar and well thought out structure of the story, check. Denmark is so cute, trying to win Finland over. And Norway knows something...
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Catching Butterflies [1a/?]
(Anonymous) 2012-02-14 05:56 pm (UTC)(link)And not the angel with the blue and white spotted tie, sitting a few seats away from him.
Finland was just as bored as everyone else, as far as Denmark could tell. He chewed the tip of his pen, stared dully out over the room, and checked the time just about every ten minutes. Still he managed to look oh so serene and divine, with fair hair falling over his forehead, just brushing down in front of those big, violet eyes, framed by light eyelashes.
England was doing his presentation at the moment, his thick voice becoming a fuzz of unclear sounds in Denmark's ears. It's not like it was important anyway. Or maybe it was, he hadn't listened closely enough to actually have an opinion on the matter.
Instead, he had just settled on watching Finland – as the man gazed out the window, brushed hair from his eyes, cracked his knuckles and yawned.
When the meeting finished, Denmark caught up with Finland outside the door, in the yellow light of sunset, just as the small man said goodbye to Sweden and Iceland at the door.
“Alright Sve, Ice, good night,” he smiled, bright and cheerful, even after so many hours of monotone voices talking about boring things. The tall man grunted in response, giving Finland that grimace that Denmark had figured out was supposed to be a smile. Iceland smiled as well, running a hand through his platinum hair as he said goodbye.
“See you tomorrow!” the Finn said as he turned to walk in one direction, while Sweden and Iceland went in the opposite.
Wait. They weren't even staying at the same hotel? Iceland he could understand, since he didn't enjoy staying in the same hotel as Norway, being in a phase where he felt embarrassed about his brother's affections. But Sweden? He and Finland always chose the same hotel.
Denmark caught up with Finland, placing a hand on his shoulder, the fabric of Finland's jacket rough under his fingers.
“Hey Fin.” He fired off what he believed to be his best charmer smile as he walked beside the Finn, “You're staying at the hotel down the street, right?”
Finland turned his head swiftly, the warm summer breeze catching his hair as he smiled brightly at Denmark.
“Hello, I didn't see you there.” Finland's smile was so sweet, so genuine and it sent sparks through Denmark's body. “Yeah, I am. You too?”
“Mhm. Where's Sverige going?”
Finland looked confused, “To his hotel?”
“You guys don't stay together?”
“Why would we?” Finland grimaced in confusion. Denmark just looked at him, waiting for the Finn to understand. When the realization dawned to him, his chin dropped and he smiled, “Oh. Oh, you think we're together!”
Catching Butterflies [1b/?]
(Anonymous) 2012-02-14 05:57 pm (UTC)(link)“Gosh no,” Finland laughed, airily and peaceful.
“Having a little lovers' spat?” Denmark grinned.
“We haven't been together since 1809.”
“Oh. But you still always stay at the same hotel. And you hang out all the time.”
“Oh, we just tend to pick the same,” the Finn kept smiling at him, “We have similar tastes. And we're still good friends.”
“Oh.”
Denmark was pretty much speechless. He had always just assumed the two had reunited and gone on with their merry little way, acting as an old married couple, even now, when they both were independent and free countries, spending the weekends together, raising Sealand and Hanatamago together, you know, doing just about everything together.
But then again, it made sense. Denmark hadn't been with Norway for an equally long time. Sure, they were close, maybe even best friends, sure, but the romance and passion had kind of died without the adrenaline of war and a shared bed to return to every night. It seemed logical for the same thing to happen to Finland and Sweden. Besides, Denmark had heard from Estonia that Finland and Russia got really close during those old days, and if Denmark knew Sweden right, the intimidating, but actually quite sensitive, man would have had a hard time getting over that.
“You seem surprised,” Finland spoke up, interrupting Denmark's thoughts.
“I am. I just kind of assumed-”
“You're not alone,” Finland laughed and kicked a small stone on the asphalt, “If you only knew how many times I've had to explain this to people.”
“It's not really strange though. The two of you were really good together.”
“'Were' is the keyword here,” Finland said, voice turning a bit more somber, “Back in the days, it was the battle and the power that drove Sweden. And I could be content being below him. It was kind of exciting. Now though, we're equal,” he smiled, a bit sadly, “It's not really the same.”
“I know what you mean,” Denmark's eyes sought out the darkening sky, “You don't really get the same rush from democratic elections as you did from armed battles.”
The atmosphere was getting strained, because the two had been on opposing sides in so many wars, Denmark had beaten Finland to the ground, had threatened to hurt him so badly just to get Sweden to suffer. In return, Finland had fought for his life against Denmark, to defend Swedish causes, to defend Sweden's pride. The hate that had brewed between Denmark and Sweden had seeped into the minds of their underlings as well and it had taken years for them to get over all the grudges.
Catching Butterflies [1c/?]
(Anonymous) 2012-02-14 05:59 pm (UTC)(link)“Well,” Finland cut through the silence, sounding just as cheerful as usual. He didn't seem to think about the old days – and if he did, he didn't let it show. Instead he smiled widely at Denmark. “We're here. What room do you stay in?”
“512. Norway's in 514, so yeah. You?”
“306. You and Norway booked together?”
Denmark scratched the back of his head awkwardly, “Yeah. Just a habit. It's easier for the both of us.”
“I see.”
“We're not together,” Denmark blurted out. Finland chuckled.
“I didn't say anything.”
“I'm serious. I just thought you should know.”
“Alright,” Finland laughed again. “I'll see you later for dinner?”
“Ah, yes, sure.”
The five of them had made a habit to go out to eat and drink at some fancy restaurant every time they were at world meetings. It was really a good way to keep updated on everyone's business and keep contact, even during busy times.
Finland's laughter rang in Denmark's ears as he returned to his room. Throwing himself on his bed, he wondered, why he had all these butterflies swarming his stomach. For heaven's sake, he had been living for over a millennia. He had been all over the world. He had conquered, he had traded, he had waged war and he had made peace, he had invaded and he had been invaded, he had loved and he had hated. He had had countless fair men and women at his mercy, and yet, he was starting to develop a crush on the small Finn.
Sure, he had always found Finland attractive, and lately he might have been thinking about him more than was normal, but never before had the Finn left him feeling giddy afterwards.
Maybe he had these feelings just because this was his chance to take what had always been Sweden's, but that felt highly unlikely, as the two were close friends nowadays, the only grudge still there between the two old enemies being the sport rivalry and the occasional petty insults.
Besides, it wasn't an urge to have, it wasn't a burning, raging excitement pulsing in his veins, but rather an urge to fall in love, and to be loved back, maybe.
But there was a problem Denmark could see clearly. Even if Finland didn't harbour any lingering feelings for Sweden, Denmark had seen the glances Sweden would send Finland. There was no doubt in the Dane's mind that the large man still felt something for his neighbor in east.
And if Denmark could have a chance at Finland's love, then so could Sweden.
Catching Butterflies [1d/?]
(Anonymous) 2012-02-14 06:01 pm (UTC)(link)Though this time, the battle was for Finland – and this time, Denmark wouldn't load his guns with bullets, but with good, old-fashioned charm.
-
It was customary for the Nordics to at least once every world meeting to have dinner together, all five of them. This time was no exception.
The restaurant was small and cozy, with a warm atmosphere. The five men shared a small table in the back. Denmark sat on the side furthest from the door, with Norway and Iceland on either side of him. Finland sat opposite of him, next to Sweden, the two not forced to be quite as cosy together, but still brushed against each other every time they moved to grab food off their plates.
“Ya' have somethin' 'ere,” Sweden mumbled to Finland, tapping the side of his mouth to notify the smaller man of the sauce on his face.
“Wha- Oh.” Finland wiped the wrong side of his mouth. Sweden chuckled, grabbed his own napkin and wiped the sauce off the Finn's face.
“Oh,” Finland blushed a bit, but then beamed up, “Thanks, Sve.”
“Yer welcome,” Sweden muttered, returning the smile.
It made Denmark's stomach clench a bit, to see those two being all cute and flirty. If Denmark would ever try something like that with Norway, even during the time they were together, he would most likely have gotten knocked on the head. And Iceland would most likely have laughed out loud at the Dane's pathetic attempts.
But Finland on the other hand, Finland would certainly just blush as prettily as he did with Sweden, muttering out some embarrassed Finnish before returning to his sunny, happy self. That happy self that glowed, eyes sparkling, just radiating kindness.
“What're you doing, idiot?” Norway drew Denmark from his daydreaming with a firm elbow to the ribs. Denmark grabbed his side and groaned.
“Just thinking, that's all.”
“Well, what do you want?” Norway continued, “We're having a last drink.”
“The beer I had before was good,” Denmark mumbled, still in pain. Norway had sharp elbows and a habit of aiming them at Denmark's sides, usually resulting in bruises over his ribs.
As they had their last drink, Denmark was unusually quiet. He stared over the table, at Finland who was talking to Sweden, quite enthusiastically. Sweden smiled and nodded at the Finn who led the conversation with a cheery voice and a silly smile that testified the alcohol's effect on him – tipsy enough to be happy and carefree but not drunk enough to lose control and threaten people with whatever knife that happened to be closest.
Getting up from their seats, Finland stumbled slightly, but before he could trip over his own feet again and fall, Sweden caught his arm and pulled him up, coming a bit close to the small man for Denmark's liking.
“Careful,” he muttered and Finland smiled at him.
Catching Butterflies [1e/?]
(Anonymous) 2012-02-14 06:03 pm (UTC)(link)The tall man chuckled and turned to head towards the door, Norway following close behind. Iceland paid the check. The youngest of the five had insisted he'd pay, considering the others had treated him a lot of times when his economics were at absolute rock bottom. Denmark smiled at Finland as they were left alone at the table.
“I like the restaurant,” he said, trying to start up a conversation.
“At least they have good beer,” Finland shrugged, reaching for his jacket. Denmark laughed.
“You got that right.” His eyes sparkled a bit and he grinned, realizing that he too, had had just a tinge too much booze to consider it an innocent beer over lunch. “Then again, they always did have good beer around here.”
“Meh, I always preferred vodka, to be honest.”
Denmark was so unused to Finland's love for alcohol, so fascinated by it that the next thing out of his mouth slipped without him even commanding his lips to speak.
“You wanna do something tomorrow night?”
Oh shit.
“Like, grab a beer, hang out.”
“Don't we usually all go out to eat at these meetings?” Finland didn't look convinced. Or, you know, sure of what Denmark was even talking about.
“No, I meant just the two of us,” the Dane gulped, “Alone.”
“Ohh,” Finland drew out the syllable before his innocent face turned wicked, “Like a date.”
“No, not like a-”
What was he saying, of course he wanted a date with Finland.
“Yes, like a date.”
“Then you're going to have to treat me to something better than just beer.” Finland still smiled like that, wicked and looking just a bit intoxicated. “I'm not that cheap.”
Immediately feeling dumb, Denmark decided to turn the charm on. He had a date either way, so what did he have to worry about?
“Hey, I'm going to treat you better than that freaking Swede ever did,” he said as he took Finland's hand in his own, pressing a light kiss to it.
“I'm not even going to ask,” Iceland interrupted as he got back to the table to fetch his jacket. He walked past them swiftly, grabbing his jacket, and walking towards the door. “Anyone of you know where Sví and Nor went?”
“Not a clue,” Denmark answered, he and Finland also on their way out now that the moment was kind of ruined.
Heading back to his hotel, Finland chattering at his side, Denmark's stomach tingled a bit. This was going good.
-
A/N: Hello! Happy Valentines Day! Felt like I needed to contribute with something on Valentines Day, so this will have to do, since I was going to post the first part soon enough anyway.
Anyway, I hope OP and anyone who reads will enjoy! :D
Re: Catching Butterflies [1e/?]
(Anonymous) 2012-02-14 11:27 pm (UTC)(link)(As a typical sufin fan I feel bad for liking this, but it's cuuuute too haha)
OP says squeeee!
(Anonymous) 2012-02-16 01:06 am (UTC)(link)Re: Catching Butterflies [1e/?]
(Anonymous) 2012-02-18 12:21 am (UTC)(link)Catching Butterflies [2a/?]
(Anonymous) 2012-02-22 09:55 pm (UTC)(link)Denmark knocked insistently at the Norwegian's door, waiting for a reply but instead receiving nothing but silence.
“I know you're in there, Nor. Don't pretend you don't hear me.”
Greeted with more silence, Denmark knocked again, rapping at the wood harder and faster.
“I'm not going away, sweetie,” he said, knowing that there were few things that annoyed Norway more than being called by ridiculous nicknames, “So you might as well let me in.”
Seven dull footsteps and a sharp unlocking of the door later, Norway stood in front of him, hands on his hips and trademark scowl on his lips.
“What do you want?”
“Does a guy need a reason to talk to his best friend?” Denmark grinned as he threw an arm around Norway's shoulders, slamming the door shut with his foot before he dragged Norway into the room again.
“If I say yes, will you go away?”
Being the truthful bastard he was, Denmark peered down at the Norwegian, smiling widely as he spoke, “Probably not.”
“Then, no, I suppose not. Now let me go.”
For once, Denmark did as he was told and removed his arm from Norway's shoulders and sat down on his friend's bed.
“Wow, your bed is really soft,” he exclaimed as he bounced lightly.
“Yes, very pleasing indeed,” Norway sighed, choosing to sit down on the sofa rather than next to the Dane on the bed. “Did you actually want something, or are you only here to jump on my bed?”
“Oh yeah,” Denmark smiled, “Do you know any good restaurants around this area?”
“May ask why you require this?”
“Well,” Denmark scratched the back of his head, “I'm kind of going on a date with Finland.”
“Oh. That was highly unexpected.”
“Yeah well, he's cute,” Denmark shot, “And I haven't gotten laid in years.”
“Please.” Norway rolled his eyes. “You always find some local human willing to have a one night stand.”
“I don't recall any one night stands, so they obviously didn't happen.”
The corner of Norway's mouth curved upwards slightly, “If you say so, idiot.”
Catching Butterflies [2b/?]
(Anonymous) 2012-02-22 09:56 pm (UTC)(link)“Well, there's one a few blocks away that's pretty cosy.”
“Will it impress Finland? I have to prove to him I'm way better than that old Swedish bastard.”
“Why?” Norway deadpanned, resting his elbow on the arm of the sofa and his head in his hand.
“Well, don't tell anyone but,” Denmark said seriously and lowered his voice. The walls were thin. “I think he still wants Finland.”
Norway laughed. It was a very rare sound, but when the Norwegian laughed, it bubbled from his chest, sounding happy and carefree, not sarcastic and scornful.
“No,” he said, chuckles still erupting from his mouth, “No, I don't think so.”
“Why not?” Denmark was almost speechless. It was so scarce to hear Norway laugh. “He always hangs around him, and is like protective and takes care of him and stuff.”
“You mean like friends usually do?”
“You never do that for me.”
“That's because you're an idiot, and I enjoy seeing you fail.”
“That's mean.”
“Yes. Your point?”
“Never mind,” Denmark grinned. “So you think I should take him there?”
“If you want to.”
“Thanks Norway.” Denmark got up from the bed, heading for the door. “You were a lot of help.”
“Whatever.”
Denmark still didn't believe Sweden was over Finland, no matter what Norway said. He couldn't see Sweden's actions towards Finland as anything but romantically affectionate. Denmark talked extremely little to Sweden, mostly because of the Swede's silent nature, and Norway should be talking even less to Sweden, considering the both of them said pretty much nothing, ever. So what did he know?
Denmark got back to his room, picking out the only nice shirt he had brought and a pair of jeans to wear on the date. Sure, Finland had really seen him at both his best and worst, so there was really nothing for Denmark to prove. Still, he wanted to make the best impression possible, because after all, this was a first date.
That, and there was still the problem of Sweden present. And Sweden always dressed proper, so Denmark couldn't be worse.
Catching Butterflies [2c/?]
(Anonymous) 2012-02-22 09:57 pm (UTC)(link)Finland looked as nice as always, wearing a thin, white t-shirt and a pale blue cardigan. His eyes sparkled and his hair was just the right amount of messy to seem like he didn't care but still looked gorgeous.
“Hello,” he greeted Denmark as he opened the door, a carefree smile plastered on his face.
“Hello,” Denmark took Finland's hand playfully, pressing a kiss to it, like he had done last night. Finland chuckled and let Denmark be just as cheesy as he wanted. When their eyes met again, Finland gave him a teasing smile.
“What a gentleman,” he stated simply as the two walked down the hallway, to the elevators.
“Anything for a lady,” Denmark teased back.
“Oh, no,” Finland whined and sighed heavily, “Not you too.”
“I'm kidding.”
“You better,” Finland pursed his lips, looking away from Denmark for a few moments before the both of the broke into laughter.
“I never really understood why Sweden always called you his wife,” Denmark mused, as they made their way outside, where the sun was low on the sky, casting a pale, yellow light over the city.
“Me neither,” Finland shrugged, “He's as gay as they come, so why he wanted his partner to be a woman is beyond me.”
Denmark hummed a low tune and turned his head towards the sun, “Nice weather.”
Finland smiled in return, eyes set on Denmark's cheerful face, “Mm, really nice.”
“So,” he continued, smiling and skipping a few steps ahead, “Where are we going?”
“Not a lady, and still you expect me to have everything planned,” Denmark sighed, winking at the Finn, “There's simply no pleasing you.”
Finland glared at Denmark through pale eyelashes, and the older chuckled; “I'm kidding.”
The two walked, side by side, in the late afternoon sun. Denmark wanted to take Finland's hand in his, wanted to feel the Finn's soft palm against his own, wanted to see him blush and look away in embarrassment, looking away, but not letting go of Denmark's hand.
He didn't take Finland's hand though. It was too early for that still, but if Denmark got his will through, he would be doing much more than holding Finland's hand, and soon. They were nations after all, and time didn't matter, because they had eternity to repay and atone, eternity to forgive and forget.
They reached the restaurant, chatting with low voices.
Catching Butterflies [2d/?]
(Anonymous) 2012-02-22 09:59 pm (UTC)(link)“So, what do you want?” Denmark peeked over the top of him menu at Finland, who was engrossed reading his, trying to decipher what the dishes were, as the menu was written in another language completely. Denmark poked at Finland's head with his own menu. “Earth to Finland.”
“Sorry, what?” Finland said, smiling sheepishly.
“What would my lady fancy this lovely evening?”
“Funny,” Finland grimaced. “Do they have steak?”
Denmark looked through the menu. “Yes.”
“Then that's what I'll have, thank you.”
Denmark placed their orders to the overly polite waiter, and Finland sat in silence, waiting for the man to leave before he spoke to Denmark again.
“So,” he began, “How did you find this place?”
“Nor suggested it.”
“Ah, he's been here before?”
“Probably.” Denmark leaned back in his seat, watching Finland intently.
The Finn was so cute. Denmark knew the smaller man had a major problem with being called cute, feminine or anything of the sort. And while he was not very feminine, face holding a delicate but boyish charm, he was indeed very cute and very sweet. Especially when his hair was ruffled, looking like he just got out of bed and wrapped in a baby blue cardigan.
No wonder Sweden liked him so much. Sweden had always had eye for cute things. Damn Swedish bast-
What then interrupted Denmark's train of thought was a soft pressure on his shin. He had drifted off in thought, and when he looked back at Finland, the soft and sweet look was replaced with something a bit more flirty. He leaned his head in his hand, eyes looking straight at Denmark as he dragged his foot up and down the Dane's leg.
Wide-eyed, Denmark stared at Finland for a moment, before he smiled, a genuine, but a bit teasing smile. He kicked of his own shoe, fumbling a bit before he could meet Finland half-way.
The Finn tilted his head curiously with a bright smile. Oh god, he was beautiful.
And then the waiter had to ruin their moment, bringing the food to their table, steak for Finland, and salmon for Denmark.
Catching Butterflies [2e/?]
(Anonymous) 2012-02-22 10:01 pm (UTC)(link)They spoke briefly between bites, topics ranging between the economical crisis and the situation in Syria, to history and the old golden ages. Finland was surprisingly easy to talk to, the conversation floating easily. Then again, this was not unexpected, as Finland for years had been forced to speak for not only himself but also for the brute he had once called husband.
Once the duo were finished, Denmark called for the check.
“So, how much?” Finland asked as he fumbled with his wallet.
“Don't worry about it,” Denmark smiled at him, setting the charm to 110%. Finland didn't seem amused though.
“I'm serious, Denmark,” he pushed. “I'm paying my part.”
Denmark shrugged. It didn't seem worth the trouble to insist on being a gentleman and paying everything himself. Besides, he didn't want Finland to get the impression that he was like Sweden and believed that Finland was a damsel in distress that needed saving at every opportunity possible. Finland obviously didn't like to be babied, so Denmark wouldn't baby him.
Besides, he wasn't made of money, and the food had not been cheap.
Leaving the restaurant, the sun had gone down behind the horizon, and Denmark and Finland walked in the light of the streetlights back to the hotel. Finland yawned and stretched, the pressure of a long day obviously getting to him.
“Tired?” Denmark asked, only getting an approving hum in response as they walked in through the doors of the hotel, entering the lobby and heading for the elevators.
Arriving at Finland's floor, Denmark said; “At least let me walk you to the door.”
Finland smiled and nodded.
“I had a great time today,” Finland said as he fished the key from his pocket.
“It was only dinner,” Denmark retreated, suddenly feeling modest and insecure in front of Finland's violet eyes.
“It was nice.”
A smile, tousled blonde hair, a hushed good night and a kiss to Denmark's cheek – and then Finland closed the door behind him, leaving the Dane wide-eyed in the hallway.
The warmth that filled Denmark's stomach spread out through his limbs, and he felt as if he was floating on small pink clouds as he went to bed that night.
-
A/N: Hello. :D Thank you for the kind comments! I am very happy there's people who enjoy my craptastic attempts at writing something that's not porn. Speaking of porn though, where does OP stand on the matter? I might include a sex scene at the very end, if OP does not mind, that is. :)
Re: Catching Butterflies [2e/?]
(Anonymous) 2012-02-23 04:44 pm (UTC)(link)can't wait to see more! (and I totally vote for a sex scene, and hopefully the OP will too)
OP vee~ry much doesn't mind at all
(Anonymous) 2012-03-11 11:42 pm (UTC)(link)