~ Powers of Nations: A Countryhumans Chronicle

▶Chapter:83◀

The chapter:

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3rd person pov:

China had been wrestling with his emotions for months, his feelings for Russia growing stronger each day until they became impossible to ignore. It wasn’t as if he hadn’t tried to suppress them; he had. But each time he was in Russia’s presence, the warmth of his affection only deepened. It wasn’t just the admiration he held for Russia's resilience or the appreciation for the bond they had shared over the years. No, this was something more profound, a yearning that transcended their friendship.

North Korea had been a confidant during this time of inner turmoil. Over several late-night conversations, China had opened up to him, revealing the extent of his feelings and the confusion that came with them. North Korea, always practical yet understanding, had listened carefully before offering his support. He had seen the change in China, noticed how his eyes lingered a bit longer on Russia, how his voice softened when he spoke of him. And so, when China mentioned that he was considering confessing his feelings, North Korea had encouraged him. "You won’t know until you tell him," he had said, his tone firm yet gentle. "It’s better to be honest with yourself and with him."

And so, China found himself standing in front of a mirror, adjusting his attire (not a traditional one, he doesn't wear traditional clothes in that book). His thoughts raced, his heart pounded in his chest, but his resolve remained unshaken. This was something he had to do, not only for himself but for the future that he hoped they could share together.

The day was calm, with a clear sky that seemed to reflect the clarity China sought in his own heart. He had arranged to meet Russia in one of the more secluded gardens of the complex—a place they often visited to talk, away from the prying eyes of others. The garden, with its meticulously kept plants and tranquil atmosphere, was a sanctuary, a place where truth could be spoken freely.

As China walked through the winding paths, his mind went over the words he wanted to say. He knew this was a significant risk—what if Russia didn’t feel the same? What if it changed their relationship irreparably? But these doubts were pushed aside by the thought of what might be gained if his feelings were reciprocated.

When he reached the garden, Russia was already there, his wings gently unfurled as he admired the flowers. The sight of him standing there, bathed in the soft sunlight, took China’s breath away. For a moment, he hesitated, simply watching him, committing this moment to memory.

Taking a deep breath, China approached. Russia turned, greeting him with a warm smile that made China’s heart ache with affection. "Hello, China," Russia said, his voice as gentle as ever.

"Hello, Russia," China replied, his voice steady despite the storm of emotions swirling inside him. They exchanged a few pleasantries, but China’s mind was focused on the task at hand. After a moment of silence, he decided to take the plunge.

"Russia," China began, his tone more serious now. "There’s something I need to tell you. Something I’ve been thinking about for a long time."

Russia looked at him with curiosity, sensing the change in China’s demeanor. "What is it, China? You can tell me anything."

China took a deep breath, steeling himself. "Russia, we’ve known each other for so long. You’ve been my friend, my ally, someone I’ve always respected. But… over time, my feelings for you have changed. They’ve grown into something more."

Russia blinked, a mixture of surprise and confusion crossing his face. "More?"

"Yes," China continued, his voice soft but firm. "I’ve fallen in love with you, Russia. I didn’t plan for it to happen, but it did. And I can’t keep it to myself anymore. I needed you to know how I feel."

There was a long silence as Russia processed China’s words. The weight of the confession hung in the air between them, delicate yet powerful. Russia’s expression was unreadable, his thoughts a mystery to China, who waited with bated breath for a response.

Finally, Russia spoke, his voice barely above a whisper. "China… I don’t know what to say. I’m… surprised."

China nodded, swallowing hard. "I understand if you don’t feel the same way, or if this changes things between us. I just couldn’t keep it inside any longer. Whatever happens, I want you to know that I’ll always value what we have."

Russia looked at him, his eyes filled with a myriad of emotions—surprise, confusion, and perhaps something else that China couldn’t quite identify.

"China, I… I need time to think about this. It’s a lot to take in."

"Of course," China replied quickly, not wanting to pressure him. "Take all the time you need. I just… I wanted to be honest with you."

Russia gave a small nod, still appearing somewhat dazed. "Thank you, China. For telling me."

They stood there for a moment longer, the garden around them silent except for the gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze. It wasn’t the resolution China had hoped for, but he felt a sense of relief, knowing that he had spoken his truth. What happened next was uncertain, but at least he had taken the first step.

With a small smile, China excused himself, leaving Russia alone to his thoughts. As he walked away, his heart felt lighter, even if the future remained unclear. Whatever came of this, he knew he had done the right thing.

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End of chapter...