American Mask

Drop it

Added some of my art regarding their expressions. Didn't really have a color for Belarus's hair but what can ya do. Also the arts not very good just some doodles I did while writing this chapter.
•••

America stared blankly at the countries who passed him, rummaging through the kitchen, moving to the couch's to watch tv. He scoffed. They were all sweating and shaking with nerves. Pathetic. He could here Allen laughing his ass off at the dim witted nations, and he too began to chuckle. He stopped quickly, since he knew Alfred would scold them both when their body lost consciousness. "What is it?" China asked sharply, setting down his silverware and glaring at America. "You aren't intimidating if that's what your aiming for." America smiled at that, looking him up and down. China had stopped eating simply because his hands shook so bad he could no longer hold the silverware. "What? Am I not allowed to observe my guests?" America laughed, softer and calmer than he did at meetings. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to come off as rude. I'm the host so I apologize for showing my esteemed guests such disrespect." He bowed his head in apology, before his face brightened into that million dollar smile and he jumped up. "I'm going out. If you need anything text me." He waved as he yanked his keys off the back of the door, scooped his wallet off the counter, and slammed the door. The countries watched him, some with confusion, others with amusement. Japan hummed thoughtfully, turning from the parted curtains and stirring his tea. China tossed his food in the trash and rinsed off his dishes quickly, before joining the others in the living room. Italy acknowledged him with a grin, before turning back to the tv. Russia gifted him with a cold smile. "What was that all about??" China grimaced as he sat beside japan. Italy laughed, "America is a curious nation, he was probably just watching to see what we're like outside of work, in our private lives." "Hasn't he seen us outside of work before though?" China didn't look convinced. Germany shook his head, "Of course not. Work and private life are meant to be kept separate." Russia scoffed at that. "For you? да~" "What does that mean??" Germany was offended but mostly just confused since Ivan hadn't said a word all morning. "ничего" Ivan grinned, looking back down to the magazine in his hands with disinterest. Ludwig frowned, choosing to ignore the Russian instead of starting shit. "Anyway, why do you have such a problem with America? I know he can be,,, difficult, but he's not that bad." Germany turned the volume down on the tv, which made everyone automatically focus on Yao. He shrugged, suddenly nervous for who knows why. "He's Just stupid and arrogant. He needs to be put in his place like all the other young nations. He's so young, yet he acts so wise." He complained, obviously ticked off. Japan averted his gaze, not wanting to speak on the topic of America-san and his 'disrespect' towards his elders. "He earned the status he has now through hard work and effort. Maybe your just having a hard time accepting it because he achieved it in such a short time?" Belarus had entered the room at some point, leaning into the door frame with a scowl. China's face grew hot with embarrassment. "Of course not! My country has thousands of years of culture behind it. He only has stolen ideas and unrealistic fantasies." China glared at her for even suggesting such a thing. She sneered, turning her back on him and walking back down the hall she came from.

Italy simpered suddenly, covering his mouth in apology. "What?" China snarled. Italy cracked his eyes open, leering at China. "I just find it funny how childish you yourself have become, whining about America just because he acts his own age." He stood up at that, "I'm going for a walk."

He didn't invite Germany which was a bit of a surprise, but no one said anything further on the matter. The atmosphere was unbearably heavy, but thankfully China knew it was time to shut up and let the issue go. After that they watched tv in silence, though none of them were really paying attention to it.