Sunrises and Snowfall [discontinued]

Chapter 1 - Truth or Date

I looked around at my surroundings. Another world meeting had come to a close, with little getting done, as always. Today was the first conference out of the five we would hold in a row every month. It was much simpler -and cheaper- than having to fly to a different country every week. It was held in DC this time, which meant Alfred had held it, and of course had felt the need to stay behind and say goodbye to the other nations as they left to return to the five-star hotel a little ways away from here.
Most of the countries had already left, but some stayed to wait for their rides or just talk to friends. I, as usual, remained to watch them all converse with each other. This was a thing I did often, even though I'm not quite sure why. I suppose since my home is so quiet, it's nice to hear people talking sometimes. It's a nice change.

Right now there is only me, America, England, France, Japan, and Italy. Wait.. was there a seventh person? Perhaps it was China... No, China just left.. Then, who is it? Well, I guess it was just my imagination.

After a few minutes, I begin to grow a tad bored. I organized my notes and put them in my briefcase. Then I played with the strings hanging from the end of my scarf. Then I checked my phone. Why can't my ride get here faster?

I looked back up at the other nations. Maybe I could talk with them? America, France, and England were all talking to each other, so I decided to get up and approach the group. As I got closer I could make out France's words.

"Oh, Alfred! You're growing to be just like your big brother France!" Francis added, not without a few roses magically appearing above his head.

"Um, dude, you're not my brother."

"Amérique, why must you be so mean to me?" He put a hand over his heart in pain for emphasis.

"Oh shut it, you frog! We already decided centuries ago who America's older brother is!"

"Oui, but he allied with me to leave you!"

And so Arthur and Francis fell into yet another fight, one that would likely last for hours. Alfred looked on, a bit concerned for his friends, but mostly entertained. Eventually the idiot noticed me there.

"Oh! Hey man!" His high pitched voice rang into my ears; I already regret coming over here. But it's not like I can just turn around and walk back to my seat or anything.

"We were playing truth or dare over here! Wanna join?"

"Not rea-"

"Cool! I dare you to go on a date with me!"

"But I didn't even choose y-"

Wait, did... did he just ask me out?

"Wha..? I.. No! There's-" was all I could manage to stutter before he interrupted me.

He stepped towards me with a smile- no, a smirk. The sideways-slanted cousin of a smile that could only mean trouble.

"Just one date bro! Or are you too chicken? Because if it bothers you that much to be around another guy..." he trailed off. Was he challenging me? I couldn't look weak compared to America! Still.. he's asking me on a date. I could feel the other country's eyes glued to us, and my face became hot with embarrassment. After a few seconds of thinking, I choked down my nervousness and gave him my answer.

"Da. Fine. I will go on this date with you."

He seemed shocked. I have to admit, I was too. But, he also seemed.. happy? Did he want to go out with me? He probably just wanted to prove me wrong, that's it. I can't see any other reason as to why he would be so excited about this.

"Awesome, man! I'll call you later and give you the details!" And with that he ran out of the room, forgetting to say goodbye to his friends.

I already regretted that decision. The other nations were still staring at me. Luckily my phone went off, indicating my ride was here, giving me an excuse to escape. I quickly walked out the door, thinking about what just happened.

Ahh it's so nerve wracking publishing a new book...