rose | ch

00 | PAPER CUT

...

Today was a pretty bland day, nothing happened except for the constant chatter of the nations when they come in my office, daily. I sipped my cappuccino as I stared out of the frosty window, bored out of my mind. A soft familiar ringing from my drawers excused me from my daily dilemma. Placing the cup down, I pulled out my phone — holding it close and cupping it to my ear.

"This is (name) (surname), how may I assist you."

"Mx. (surname)?" EU's voice rung from the speaker, loud and stoic. "You are needed at the meeting that will be held this afternoon."

"Alright. I'll be right there in a moment." I replied, rubbing a hand against my aching temple, holding back the wave of drowsiness that hit me like a truck. Maybe I shouldn't have drunk that much black coffee this morning.

EU, not waiting for any more words, ended the call with a sound of affirmation.

I let out a tired sigh and put down my phone, arranging my desk. I slid my cup aside and picked up the paperwork folder that I was expected to give to one of the higher nations, ASEAN. Pulling down my tight-fitting shirt cuffs that I had to fix up every few seconds, I started strolling towards the elevator. My ebony matte shoes echoed against the marble floors, as I passed one of the many paintings that decorated the blank white walls. Seeing glimpses of abstract pieces of famous places around the world.

Straightening my cuffs, I walked through the metal doors. In the moment, another person slid past me - taking a spot before me in the quite spacious area. The said person, or rather 'country-human' was in fact USA. Otherwise known as America, one of Britain's sons or so I have heard. I assumed he was going to the meeting as well, so I pressed the floor for the meeting room - level 13. However, another hand slid against mine as I reached to press the button. It was none other than the only other person in the elevator.

Stunned, we left our hands there — America's breath hitching slightly in surprise.

"Ah." I realised, pulling my hand away while America quickly pressed the button for the floor.

"Excuse my behaviour, sir." I bowed my head, slightly ashamed of not pulling away as quick. He only turned a cherry red in response, confusing me to no ends.

"No need for me to excuse, (name)." America spoke breathily, leaning back and shoving his hands into his pockets. I promptly nodded and looked away, observing the numbers of the levels go higher and higher. In the corner of my eye, I spied America pushing his glasses down, staring at me. I lifted a brow at his actions but didn't question it.

"Level 13." A metallic female voice cut into my perception, "Doors opening."

The metal doors opened on sync with the voice, revealing a polished marble hallway - similar to the one on my office floor. America strode out first and took off, leaving me to walk to the meeting alone. I lifted my hand and pulled down my sleeve, displaying my silver watch.

"2:30." I read out in a hushed voice. "The meeting starts at 3. USA is early for once." I voiced my thoughts, amused as i fixed my button-up once again.

After a while of fumbling with my files and walking, I finally reached the room. I pushed open one of the big wooden doors and let myself in. I was welcomed with the faces of familiar countries and colleagues. I bowed a little in acknowledgment and walked towards my designated spot, placing my papers down. I then proceeded towards the nation of peacekeeping as ASEAN was no where to be seen.