A Product of War [Hetalia]

Chapter 4.

That Night
Matthew was in the middle of a thunderstorm next to Ivan. They had found themselves talking after the conference, however it was getting to be a very cold winter. So this thunderstorm not only came out of nowhere, but would inevitably lead to a small blizzard.

Both nations were used to weather like that, but weren't expecting it.

The two were unfortunately out in the wilderness when it started, and the closest place Ivan could find was a very small cabin he went to once and a while when he wanted space from his boss. It was cozy, and there was only one bed available, but at that point, Matthew was just glad to be out of the storm. And, oddly enough, to be able to spend more time with Ivan.

They'd been huddled together under a blanket for over an hour, just chatting awkwardly, before Matthew began to cough.

Russia🇷🇺: Are you alright?

Matthew nodded.

Canada🇨🇦: Yeah, sorry... I get sick pretty easily. I probably caught it during the conference. And my body doesn't respond to extremely cold temperatures the way it's supposed to. I guess that makes me weak...

Russia🇷🇺: You are not weak, I promise you. Why is your immune system like that, anyway?

Matthew looked away, knowing this question was coming, but dreading the thought of answering it.

Canada🇨🇦: It, is because of something when I was a kid, my immune system was fine when I was younger, but then there was an incident... it ended with me getting super sick, it stretched over nearly two months, and... yeah, my immune system's been jacked up ever since...

Ivan gave Matthew a concerned look.

Russia🇷🇺: Am I allowed to ask what happened...?

Matthew gently shot Ivan a look that gave him his answer. "I would rather if you didn't, but I'd still answer it if you did". Ivan didn't respond directly and held Matthew a bit closer.

Russia🇷🇺: Do you need anything to warm up more?

Matthew smiled at Ivan gratefully and shook his head.

Canada🇨🇦: I'm okay right now, merci...

Matthew suddenly took a deep breath and cuddled closer to Ivan. Ivan smiled, knowing what that word meant.

Russia🇷🇺: You're welcome, Sunflower...

Canada🇨🇦: Sunflower?

Ivan nodded. Matthew gave Ivan a small smile and a blush. Ivan nodded and spoke calmly and quietly.

Russia🇷🇺: If you think it is too soon, tell me.

Matthew blinked, but after a few moments Matthew shook his head with a smile on his face.

Canada🇨🇦: No, it's not...

Matthew leaned up against Ivan, practically whispering his response to him, barely louder than the storm outside.

Canada🇨🇦: Don't worry... Ivan... je t'aime...

Ivan felt an overwhelming pulse of warmth upon hearing those words. Meanwhile Matthew realized he'd spoken French unconsciously.

Canada🇨🇦: Oh, shoot... I—I'm so sorry, I didn't realize...

Russia🇷🇺: Matthew...

Ivan gently lifted Matthew's head so that they were facing each other, and responded with a smile. He didn't know as much French as he would have liked, but he knew for sure what that statement meant.