~ Powers of Nations: A Countryhumans Chronicle

▶Chapter:81◀

The chapter:

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3rd person pov:

Russ had always been the nurturing type, and now, with Ukraine in such a fragile state, he took it upon himself to provide all the comfort and care his brother needed. His cats, who had become more affectionate since Russ's recovery, followed them everywhere, their soft purring a soothing presence in the house. Ukraine found their company calming, and he smiled whenever one of them brushed up against him or curled up in his lap.

That evening, Russ made sure Ukraine was settled comfortably on the couch, a warm blanket draped over him, and a steaming cup of herbal tea in his hands. The two of them talked about lighter topics, avoiding the heavier conversation for the time being. Russ didn’t want to push his brother into discussing what had happened with Canada until he was ready. Instead, they shared stories from their childhood, reminiscing about better days.

As night fell, Russ guided Ukraine to the guest room, where he had already prepared the bed with fresh linens and a few extra pillows to ensure his brother would be comfortable. Ukraine offered a tired but sincere smile as he climbed into bed. Russ sat by his side for a while, talking softly until Ukraine’s eyelids grew heavy, and he drifted off to sleep.

The next morning, Russ awoke early, the light of dawn filtering softly through the curtains. He had always been an early riser, a habit ingrained in him through years of discipline. He quietly made his way to the kitchen, intending to prepare breakfast, but as he passed by Ukraine’s room, he heard faint sounds of distress. Concern immediately spiked in his chest, and he hurried to the door, gently pushing it open.

Ukraine wasn’t in bed. Russ followed the sounds down the hall to the bathroom, where he found his brother hunched over the toilet, vomiting. The sight of Ukraine in such a state of discomfort tugged at Russ’s heart. He quickly moved to his brother’s side, kneeling down beside him and rubbing soothing circles on his back.

“It’s okay, Ukraine,” Russ said softly, his voice filled with concern. “I’m here. Just breathe.”

Ukraine’s body trembled with the effort of retching, but Russ stayed by his side, offering comfort until the nausea subsided. When it was over, Ukraine leaned back, exhausted and pale, his breaths coming in shallow gasps. Russ helped him up, supporting him as he rinsed his mouth and splashed cool water on his face.

“I’m sorry,” Ukraine murmured, his voice hoarse.

“Don’t apologize,” Russ replied, his tone gentle but firm. “This is normal, especially during pregnancy. Let’s get you cleaned up, and then I’ll make us some breakfast, okay?”

Ukraine nodded weakly, grateful for Russ’s support. With Russ’s help, he changed into fresh clothes and returned to the kitchen, where Russ set about preparing a simple but nourishing breakfast. The aroma of cooking food filled the air, and Ukraine’s stomach, though still queasy, seemed to settle a little.

As they sat down to eat, Russ watched his brother carefully, noting the fatigue still evident in his features. After a few bites, Russ decided it was time to gently bring up the topic that had been on his mind since the previous night.

“Ukraine,” Russ began softly, reaching across the table to place a hand on his brother’s. “Have you thought about what you want to do? About the baby, I mean.”

Ukraine looked up at Russ, his eyes searching his brother’s face. He knew what Russ was asking, and despite the turmoil in his heart, he had already made up his mind.

“I want to keep the baby,” Ukraine said firmly, though his voice wavered slightly. “I know it’s going to be hard, especially without Canada, but… I can’t imagine not having it. I want to give this baby a chance.”