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Description
((WARNING: CONTAINS CURSING. But hey, it's Romano, we all knew that. So you don't like? Don't read.))

"Tch! Stupid tomato jerk! Making a little kid like me clean his giant house! Who does he think he is?!" Grumbled the small country.

"Romano, I can hear you." Called the older Spaniard from the other room. The tall, tanned skinned, brown haired, and green eyed young man walked in and stared down at the little, hot tempered, dark brown haired, and amber eyed Italian. The Spaniard sighed in defeat. "Roma, just go outside. I'll clean."

"Ha! Good luck with that, you stupid tomato jerk!" Romano laughed before he ran out to the tomato garden. Out of all the things that he hated, living at Spain's place, he loved the tomato garden. "The only thing that jerk's good for is his tomatoes! If it wasn't for that, he'd be worthless!" The little boy grabbed for a bright red tomato.

Just as he gave it a tug, it wouldn't pull away from the vine.

"What the hell? Stupid thing." Romano grumbled as he gave it another tug. Still not moving. "Dammit. Come on, you stupid tomato!!" He grabbed the red fruit with both hands and pulled roughly.

"EEK!!"

"GAH!!

Romano fell back on the ground with a thud and a weight on his chest. He peaked open one of his amber eyes to see what it was.

On his chest, was the figure of a small child, a girl about his age. Her (h/c) locks were pulled back in a loose ponytail. She looked up and her large (e/c) eyes met his own. Her (f/c) dress and white apron was tattered and dirty.

"S-sorry." She mumbled before sitting up, off him.

"D-don't worry about it," Romano replied as he stood himself. "What are you doing in Spain's garden?"

"Running."

"From who?"

She sighed. "Who am I not running from? There's the Holy Roman Empire, the Ottoman Empire, France..." She trailed off.

"Well..."

"Romano!! Where are you, mi tomate?" A voice called.

Romano grumbled under his breath. "Stupid tomato jerk." He turned to the young girl. "What's your name, ragazza?" He asked.

"Well, (Country Name). And you?" She asked, holding out her hand.

"Romano, or South Italy." He gave her a small grin and took her hand into his and gave it a firm shake.

"Ah! There you are!" Spain turned the corner and walked to the two small countries. "And who might you be, niña?" He asked the girl as he kneeled down to the two of them.

"(Country Name), this is Spain." Romano said to his new companion as he pointed to the elder country.

"What are you doing here, (Country Name)?" Spain asked the small girl.

"Running from all the other countries who want to take me over... France being the worst." The young girl replied with a sigh.

Spain blinked in surprise. "France, huh? That guy is causing a bit of trouble..." Spain stroked his chin in thought.

"Aha!! Found you, you little French territory!!"

(Country Name) ran behind Spain and peeked out from behind him to see the tall figure of France, the blond country with bright blue eyes. The young country fled behind Spain and let tout a hiss at France. "Leave me alone, you freaky dress-wearer!!"

"Pardon moi?! These are not dresses, they're stylish men's clothing!! Now, Spain. I'm going to ask you nicely. Give me that little country. And don't be afraid to hand over South Italy along with her." France said to the tanned Spaniard as he glanced from him to the younger nations.

Spain looked down at the two countries, (Country Name) looked up at him with her large (e/c) eyes, and Romano gave him a sideways glance. The tanned man turned back to France. "No. These two are staying with me." He told France. "And I will fight you for them."

"So be it, then." France said with a huff as he looked down towards the two smaller countries. "Just you two wait. You'll be my little French Territories soon enough!"

"Shut up, freaky dress-wearer!!" (Country Name) shouted as she threw one of Spain's tomatoes and his France square in the face.

"Mon dieu!! Look at what you've done!!" France shrieked as he ran off. "This isn't over!!" He called over his shoulder, leaving bits of tomato in his wake.

Romano and Spain looked shocked at the young country. She stood their proudly watching at the Frenchman disappeared from sight.

"Well, (Country Name). Since you're here, how about you let Boss Spain take care of you? You can help Romano out with the chores too. You'll get a clean room, food to eat, and safety from other countries." Spain offered. "What do you say?"

The small country pondered the thought of living with these two. Sure, the taller one might get a bit annoying at times, but he could be a good ally in the future. And the smaller one... Grumpy and unkempt, probably going to make the work a bit harder, but surely she could whip him into shape.

Plus... There was something about him that just made her chest feel lighter.

"Alright. I'll take up your offer, Spain." She spoke.

Spain beamed, "¡Muy bien! Come on, I'll get a room set up for you! In the mean time, it's just about dinner, I'm sure you must be hungry to hide in my tomato garden, no?"

The small country's stomach answered for her, causing Romano to snicker. "Come on, he may not be the best boss around, but he does make some good food."

"Romano, have you finished cleaning your room yet?" Spain asked the smaller country.

"Tomato jerk!! You said I didn't have to clean!!" Romano yelled.

"I said you didn't have to clean that room, I never said anything about your room." Spain replied.

Romano grumbled several curses under his breath as he moped out of the room. (Country Name) walked with Spain to the kitchen and hopped up onto a stool.

"Well, you'll have to get used to Romano being like that. He's usually hot tempered and sharp tongued." Spain said with an embarrassed laugh.

"No, it's fine." (Country Name) replied. "I'm just glad to have a place to stay."

Spain chuckled at her response. "So, where did you live before you went on the run?" He asked.

"I actually lived south of the Holy Roman Empire. Once he discovered where I was, he tried to get me to join him, but I ran away before I could." She explained, then lowered her head onto her arms. "Sometimes I'm just a little coward like that."

Spain glanced back the the girl, who was looking quite small, smaller anyway. He gave her a sympathetic smile then patted the top of her head. "Don't worry, niña. If it makes you feel any better, Romano's a bit of a coward too."

"What was that, you stupid tomato jerk?" Asked said Italian as he walked in.

Spain chuckled. "Nothing, Roma. Anyway, wash up, you two dinner will be ready shortly."

~~~

"Romano! Are you finished with cleaning the living room?" (Country Name) called from the kitchen.

"Almost, dammit!! Don't rush me!!" Romano called back.

It had been a long time since (Country Name) started living in Spain's house. By now, she and Romano were both growing, in size and independence. When they were the size of children then, they were the size of teenagers now.

The female country walked over to the living room to see Romano was still working on scrubbing the floor and grumbling curses under his breath.

"That damn tomato bastard, why the hell do we have to do his stupid cleaning? It's his house, dammit!!" He growled.

(Country Name) sighed. "Well, we don't have a choice, it's not like he does his own cleaning."

"He needs to learn!!" Romano yelled at her, but she didn't flinch. She only chuckled.

"Come on, I'll help you clean here." (Country Name) said to Gina's. She kneeled down and began to scrub the floor with Romano.

The young Italian watched the young teenager scrub the floor with a look of determination. Her (h/c) locks falling into her face, but she didn't seem to mind. She continued working quietly, and so did he.

In the past years he had known her, Romano had become great friends with the young country. Even if he had been gaining more and more of his independence, he still made time for (Country Name). She had met his brother a few times once his voice changed from sounding like a little girl.

And he wasn't the only one gaining independence. (Country Name)'s defense was growing stronger, and so were her people. It wouldn't be long before she left to take care of herself.

"Hey, (Country Name)." Romano called over to her.

Said girl looked up from her work and moved her gaze to him, so her (e/c) eyes met his bright amber ones. "Yeah? What is it, Romano?"

"What are you going to do when you get independence?" He asked, completely switching to a random topic.

She raised a brow towards him. "Well, I suppose I would leave here and return to my country. I mean, I like living in Spain and all, but I do miss my home with (National Flowers) growing all around, the beautiful scenery, there's just so much that I miss." She replied, reminiscing on her past. "What about you?" She turned to him with a gentle smile.

"M-me?" Romano asked. "I dunno, dammit. I haven't given it any thought." He replied.

She laughed. "Really? You ask me and I can't ask you?"

"Shut up! So what? I mean, we'll be free from the tomato bastard, doesn't that sound good enough?!" He asked her, his face reddening.

Nodding, (Country Name) stood and admired the handiwork that she had done on the floor. "Floor's clean." She spoke.

"A-ah. Sí. It is." Romano agreed, noticing that the two of them had finished without him realizing it.

"Come on, I think we've both earned a break." She told him.

Romano nodded and stood up. Once the cleaning supplies was put away, the two walked out of the large path and down a dirty path leading away from the house.

"Say, Romano." (Country Name) spoke suddenly.

"Sí?" He replied.

"How's your brother doing? It's been a while since I saw Veneziano." She said to him.

Romano's curl drooped a bit. Surely she didn't like his brother more than she liked him, did she? "Fine. He's getting more independence from that Piano Bastard." He replied, a bit sourly.

"That's good to hear. Once you get more independence from Spain, you'll be reunited with your brother!" She said happily. "Aren't you excited about that?"

"I guess." Romano replied with a sigh. In all honesty, he wanted to be with his brother again, even if he wouldn't admit it. But what he would hate about leaving Spain's would be leaving (Country Name).

"You guess? You're lucky, Romano. Having a little brother. I wish I had some siblings." (Country Name) said with a happy smile.

"I don't know about that. You would have to share your country with them, maybe even have people adore your sibling while leaving you in the dust because he's so fucking perfect!!" He began ranting. "Because, of course! He would look more like you grandpa, he could be a better cook, and a better artist! Everyone would love him above you! Would you really want that?!" He asked her, turning a glare towards her.

(Country Name) stood and stared at Romano. She was shocked at what he heard come from his mouth. Did he really think that about himself? She opened her mouth to say something, but he just kept walking without her. "Oi! Wait up, Romano!" She called as she tried to catch up to him.

Romano soon noticed that he had walked to a little pond. He remembered this pond. He came here when he was younger, and before he met (Country Name). The first time he came to the pond, he felt the exact same way earlier. Sitting down, he held his knees close to his chest.

He stared into the water and let his thoughts wander. Ever since (Country Name) had come to Spain's house, she had made him feel like that he wasn't being compared to his little brother. She was okay with him, and him only.

The sound of wings flapping drew his attention from his thoughts and caused him to look up. Staring down at him was a hawk. It's sharp eyes staring right through him. Only his attention was drawn by the small scroll of paper tied to its leg. The Italian stood and walked to the hark, cautiously.

"Hello, there..." He murmured to the bird as he walked closer to it. When he was close enough, the bird flew itself onto his shoulder, it's talons barely digging into the skin. Romano took this chance to untie the scroll from the leg. "Thank you, for this." Romano said to the bird as he unrolled the scroll. He felt the bird fly off, leaving him alone to read.

The Nation of (Country Name) is now independent. Everything has gone as you said. You can return home.

-Your Military Adviser.

Romano's eyes widened. She was independent now... Doesn't that mean she'll leave soon? The one person who saw him just the way he was is going to leave so things can go back to the way they were?

"Romano!!"

He flinched at the sound of her voice. Turning and hiding the scroll behind his back, Romano watched at (Country Name) ran up to him, then bent over panting.

"G-geez! Don't run off like that! I thought that you had gotten lost!" She managed to speak as air returned to her lungs.

"Oh, Mi dispiace." He muttered. "Come on, let's head home. That tomato bastard is going to get home soon."

"Yeah. Let's go." She agreed.

As the two walked back, Romano stuffed the scroll into his back pocket. He had to think this through, this letter was e only thing that would inform (Country Name) of her freedom. Unless that tomato bastard told her, but Romano could handle him.

Once the two countries returned home, Spain hadn't come in yet.

"I suppose I'll get started on dinner." (Country Name) spoke as she moved to the kitchen, with Romano following her. He pulled one of the tomatoes to snack on and leaned against the counter.

"Hey, (Country Name)?"

"Yeah?"

"Have you ever wanted a name besides your Country's name?"

"You mean like a nickname or something?"

"No, like a human name."

She stared at him in confusion. "Why a human name?"

He took a bite of his tomato. "Come on, haven't you ever wondered what it would be like?"

She pondered the thought for a moment or two. "I guess I've wondered several times. But how would I know which name sounds the best for me?" She asked him.

"Let's do this, you choose my name, and I choose yours." Romano suggested.

"As long as it doesn't have 'tomato' in it." She laughed softly.

Romano frowned at her slightly but watched as she turned away from him to continue cooking. Everything about her, he loved. Her (h/c) locks, her shining (e/c) orbs, her personality, her nature, her everything.

"(Name)." He said.

"Hm?"

"That's your name, ragazza. (Name)." He stated with a small smirk.

"(Name)..." She murmured softly. "I like it! And for you... How about Lovino?"

"Lovino?"

"Yeah! Plus, I can call you Lovi if I want!" She laughed.

"Don't even think about it!!" Romano yelled, his face turning a light shade of red.

"Aww, Lovi. You don't need to have a temper tantrum." (Country Name) said to him, adopting a baby voice.

"Shut up, idiota!!" He growled.

Laughing, she patted his shoulder. "Come on, Romano, I'm just messing with you."

He sighed out of annoyance, but his blush hadn't disappeared.

"Mis pequeños!! I'm home!!" Spain called as he walked into the house.

"We're in the kitchen!" (Country Name) called back.

Romano sighed again and leaned against the country as Spain walked in, cheerful as ever. "And how were you two today? Get all of your chores done?"

"Yup. All clean." (Country Name) replied as she stirred the pot and it's boiling contents.

"What are you making, chica?" Spain asked, looking over her shoulder.

"Pasta."

Romano's eyed snapped onto (Country Name) as she turned back to face him with a sympathetic looking smile, almost one that said: "I'm sorry about earlier."

"I'll set the plates." Romano spoke as he moved out of the kitchen and to the dining room with the plates in hand.

~~~

Romano paced in his room early the next morning. He still had the note of (Country Name)'s independence, and he still didn't know what to do with it.

Idiota! Give it to her! If she finds out that you're hiding this, she'll hate you forever!

But if you give it to her, she'll leave and you might never see her again...

But she wants to be free! Give her the note!

But I want her to stay here! I love the girl, dammit!

And she might love you if you give her the damn note!!

I can't!

You have to!

"Romano?"

He quickly turned to see that (Country Name) was standings at his door, her hair neatly brushed and she was already dressed in the morning's clothes.

"Are you alright?" She asked him.

"U-um, yeah. I'm fine." Replied the Italian quickly. "B-but..." He turned to his table and picked up the note. "Th-this was left at my window this morning when I woke up. I think it was meant for you." He said, holding the note out for her.

She raised a brow and took the note.

He hated lying to her, but if she knew this story, then she won't suspect him of anything.

(Country Name)'s eyes widened to the size of plates. She looked up at him with tears beginning to brim at her eyes.

"H-hey, don't cr-!?"

He felt her lips smash onto his, she was holding his cheeks gently in her hands. His feelings of shock didn't have time to fade before she pulled away, her face a deep shade of red.

"I promise, that once everything is stable, I'll come back for you, Romano. I'll make sure you get your independence." She said to him, her determination showing through her words, even if her voice cracked.

Romano felt his heart droop. "So, you are leaving..."

"But I promise, I swear on my country that I will come back. I love you... Lovino." She said to him.

The feelings of sadness were tugging at his heart, but he smiled all the same. "I love you too, (Name)."

She gave him one last tight hug before she ran down the hall to find Spain.

Romano watched out his window as her figure walked away from he house with a bag slung over her shoulder. He knew she wouldn't look back, it would be too painful for the both of them.

"It's sad to see her leave, eh?"

Romano looked over his shoulder to see Spain leaning on his door frame. His response was a mere grunt as he turned back to the open window.

He heard Spain's footsteps come closer to him and felt a hand on his shoulder. "I wouldn't worry too much, Roma. If (Country Name) says she'll do something, she'll do it."

"I know that, bastard." Romano replied. "I'm just going to miss her."

Spain smiled sympathetically. "I will too, Roma. I will too."

Romano sighed softly and he watched as the figure of his love disappeared.

She'll come back. She promised.

And she keeps her promises.

Always.

~~~

"Fratello!!"

"Sí?"

"You should be celebrating! We're finally independent!" Cheered the happy Italian, his bright amber eyes shining in the light.

Romano sighed. "I know, Veneziano, I know. It's just... I'm waiting to celebrate it with someone."

Italy tipped his head in confusion, causing his curl to bounce. "And who might that be? A pretty lady? Romano! You never told me you met a lady! What's her name? What's she like? Does she like cats? Does she like pasta?"

Romano ignored his brother and walked away with his wine glass in had as his brother rambled on. Taking a small sip of his wine, he watched as people all around him celebrated, cheering, dancing, and enjoying the fact they were finally free. Of course, he was happy about that.

But he couldn't truly be happy unless he was with the one he loved.

Many years had gone by since he last saw his love. He had grown with the body of a young adult, how she looked, he had no idea. She had been an independent nation for years, and still, things were unsteady for her, that's why she hadn't come back yet.

But, in the dark part of his mind, he couldn't help but think she had forgotten about him. Sighing sadly, he took another sip of his wine.

"Oi! Tomato boy!!"

"Wha-AAH!!"

Romano was knocked back by a tomato straight to the face. He quickly shook himself off and glared in the direction of where the tomato was thrown. "Bastardo!! Who the fuck threw that?!" When the last of tomato was out of his face, he saw who threw the fruit.

There in front of him, a couple yards away, stood a young woman, his age. Her long (h/c) hair was shining in the light, her bright (e/c) eyes sparkling with love and joy, and a smile graced her lips. She wore a simple (f/c) dress with a (second f/c) sash around her waist.

Romano didn't wait a moment before running to her, dropping his wine glass, and taking her into his arms, forcefully pressing his lips against hers as tears brimmed at his own eyes. He felt her arms wrap around his neck and he wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her close.

The two held the position as long as they could before the need for air became too great. Reluctantly, the two pulled away from each other and locked teary eyes to teary eyes.

"Idiota, what the fucking hell took you so long?" Romano asked her as tears flowed from his eyes.

"Lovino, I came as soon as I possibly could. I said I would help you become independent, and that's exactly what I did." She replied.

"What? How?"

"That's why things were so unsettled in my place. I was trying to get independence for you. Believe me, it was hard work." She said with a small laugh.

Romano shook his head in defeat before pressing his lips onto hers again. "Grazie. Ti amo, (Name)."

"I love you too, Lovino."

~End~

Description
((WARNING: CONTAINS CURSING. But hey, it's Romano, we all knew that. So you don't like? Don't read.))

"Tch! Stupid tomato jerk! Making a little kid like me clean his giant house! Who does he think he is?!" Grumbled the small country.

"Romano, I can hear you." Called the older Spaniard from the other room. The tall, tanned skinned, brown haired, and green eyed young man walked in and stared down at the little, hot tempered, dark brown haired, and amber eyed Italian. The Spaniard sighed in defeat. "Roma, just go outside. I'll clean."

"Ha! Good luck with that, you stupid tomato jerk!" Romano laughed before he ran out to the tomato garden. Out of all the things that he hated, living at Spain's place, he loved the tomato garden. "The only thing that jerk's good for is his tomatoes! If it wasn't for that, he'd be worthless!" The little boy grabbed for a bright red tomato.

Just as he gave it a tug, it wouldn't pull away from the vine.

"What the hell? Stupid thing." Romano grumbled as he gave it another tug. Still not moving. "Dammit. Come on, you stupid tomato!!" He grabbed the red fruit with both hands and pulled roughly.

"EEK!!"

"GAH!!

Romano fell back on the ground with a thud and a weight on his chest. He peaked open one of his amber eyes to see what it was.

On his chest, was the figure of a small child, a girl about his age. Her (h/c) locks were pulled back in a loose ponytail. She looked up and her large (e/c) eyes met his own. Her (f/c) dress and white apron was tattered and dirty.

"S-sorry." She mumbled before sitting up, off him.

"D-don't worry about it," Romano replied as he stood himself. "What are you doing in Spain's garden?"

"Running."

"From who?"

She sighed. "Who am I not running from? There's the Holy Roman Empire, the Ottoman Empire, France..." She trailed off.

"Well..."

"Romano!! Where are you, mi tomate?" A voice called.

Romano grumbled under his breath. "Stupid tomato jerk." He turned to the young girl. "What's your name, ragazza?" He asked.

"Well, (Country Name). And you?" She asked, holding out her hand.

"Romano, or South Italy." He gave her a small grin and took her hand into his and gave it a firm shake.

"Ah! There you are!" Spain turned the corner and walked to the two small countries. "And who might you be, niña?" He asked the girl as he kneeled down to the two of them.

"(Country Name), this is Spain." Romano said to his new companion as he pointed to the elder country.

"What are you doing here, (Country Name)?" Spain asked the small girl.

"Running from all the other countries who want to take me over... France being the worst." The young girl replied with a sigh.

Spain blinked in surprise. "France, huh? That guy is causing a bit of trouble..." Spain stroked his chin in thought.

"Aha!! Found you, you little French territory!!"

(Country Name) ran behind Spain and peeked out from behind him to see the tall figure of France, the blond country with bright blue eyes. The young country fled behind Spain and let tout a hiss at France. "Leave me alone, you freaky dress-wearer!!"

"Pardon moi?! These are not dresses, they're stylish men's clothing!! Now, Spain. I'm going to ask you nicely. Give me that little country. And don't be afraid to hand over South Italy along with her." France said to the tanned Spaniard as he glanced from him to the younger nations.

Spain looked down at the two countries, (Country Name) looked up at him with her large (e/c) eyes, and Romano gave him a sideways glance. The tanned man turned back to France. "No. These two are staying with me." He told France. "And I will fight you for them."

"So be it, then." France said with a huff as he looked down towards the two smaller countries. "Just you two wait. You'll be my little French Territories soon enough!"

"Shut up, freaky dress-wearer!!" (Country Name) shouted as she threw one of Spain's tomatoes and his France square in the face.

"Mon dieu!! Look at what you've done!!" France shrieked as he ran off. "This isn't over!!" He called over his shoulder, leaving bits of tomato in his wake.

Romano and Spain looked shocked at the young country. She stood their proudly watching at the Frenchman disappeared from sight.

"Well, (Country Name). Since you're here, how about you let Boss Spain take care of you? You can help Romano out with the chores too. You'll get a clean room, food to eat, and safety from other countries." Spain offered. "What do you say?"

The small country pondered the thought of living with these two. Sure, the taller one might get a bit annoying at times, but he could be a good ally in the future. And the smaller one... Grumpy and unkempt, probably going to make the work a bit harder, but surely she could whip him into shape.

Plus... There was something about him that just made her chest feel lighter.

"Alright. I'll take up your offer, Spain." She spoke.

Spain beamed, "¡Muy bien! Come on, I'll get a room set up for you! In the mean time, it's just about dinner, I'm sure you must be hungry to hide in my tomato garden, no?"

The small country's stomach answered for her, causing Romano to snicker. "Come on, he may not be the best boss around, but he does make some good food."

"Romano, have you finished cleaning your room yet?" Spain asked the smaller country.

"Tomato jerk!! You said I didn't have to clean!!" Romano yelled.

"I said you didn't have to clean that room, I never said anything about your room." Spain replied.

Romano grumbled several curses under his breath as he moped out of the room. (Country Name) walked with Spain to the kitchen and hopped up onto a stool.

"Well, you'll have to get used to Romano being like that. He's usually hot tempered and sharp tongued." Spain said with an embarrassed laugh.

"No, it's fine." (Country Name) replied. "I'm just glad to have a place to stay."

Spain chuckled at her response. "So, where did you live before you went on the run?" He asked.

"I actually lived south of the Holy Roman Empire. Once he discovered where I was, he tried to get me to join him, but I ran away before I could." She explained, then lowered her head onto her arms. "Sometimes I'm just a little coward like that."

Spain glanced back the the girl, who was looking quite small, smaller anyway. He gave her a sympathetic smile then patted the top of her head. "Don't worry, niña. If it makes you feel any better, Romano's a bit of a coward too."

"What was that, you stupid tomato jerk?" Asked said Italian as he walked in.

Spain chuckled. "Nothing, Roma. Anyway, wash up, you two dinner will be ready shortly."

~~~

"Romano! Are you finished with cleaning the living room?" (Country Name) called from the kitchen.

"Almost, dammit!! Don't rush me!!" Romano called back.

It had been a long time since (Country Name) started living in Spain's house. By now, she and Romano were both growing, in size and independence. When they were the size of children then, they were the size of teenagers now.

The female country walked over to the living room to see Romano was still working on scrubbing the floor and grumbling curses under his breath.

"That damn tomato bastard, why the hell do we have to do his stupid cleaning? It's his house, dammit!!" He growled.

(Country Name) sighed. "Well, we don't have a choice, it's not like he does his own cleaning."

"He needs to learn!!" Romano yelled at her, but she didn't flinch. She only chuckled.

"Come on, I'll help you clean here." (Country Name) said to Gina's. She kneeled down and began to scrub the floor with Romano.

The young Italian watched the young teenager scrub the floor with a look of determination. Her (h/c) locks falling into her face, but she didn't seem to mind. She continued working quietly, and so did he.

In the past years he had known her, Romano had become great friends with the young country. Even if he had been gaining more and more of his independence, he still made time for (Country Name). She had met his brother a few times once his voice changed from sounding like a little girl.

And he wasn't the only one gaining independence. (Country Name)'s defense was growing stronger, and so were her people. It wouldn't be long before she left to take care of herself.

"Hey, (Country Name)." Romano called over to her.

Said girl looked up from her work and moved her gaze to him, so her (e/c) eyes met his bright amber ones. "Yeah? What is it, Romano?"

"What are you going to do when you get independence?" He asked, completely switching to a random topic.

She raised a brow towards him. "Well, I suppose I would leave here and return to my country. I mean, I like living in Spain and all, but I do miss my home with (National Flowers) growing all around, the beautiful scenery, there's just so much that I miss." She replied, reminiscing on her past. "What about you?" She turned to him with a gentle smile.

"M-me?" Romano asked. "I dunno, dammit. I haven't given it any thought." He replied.

She laughed. "Really? You ask me and I can't ask you?"

"Shut up! So what? I mean, we'll be free from the tomato bastard, doesn't that sound good enough?!" He asked her, his face reddening.

Nodding, (Country Name) stood and admired the handiwork that she had done on the floor. "Floor's clean." She spoke.

"A-ah. Sí. It is." Romano agreed, noticing that the two of them had finished without him realizing it.

"Come on, I think we've both earned a break." She told him.

Romano nodded and stood up. Once the cleaning supplies was put away, the two walked out of the large path and down a dirty path leading away from the house.

"Say, Romano." (Country Name) spoke suddenly.

"Sí?" He replied.

"How's your brother doing? It's been a while since I saw Veneziano." She said to him.

Romano's curl drooped a bit. Surely she didn't like his brother more than she liked him, did she? "Fine. He's getting more independence from that Piano Bastard." He replied, a bit sourly.

"That's good to hear. Once you get more independence from Spain, you'll be reunited with your brother!" She said happily. "Aren't you excited about that?"

"I guess." Romano replied with a sigh. In all honesty, he wanted to be with his brother again, even if he wouldn't admit it. But what he would hate about leaving Spain's would be leaving (Country Name).

"You guess? You're lucky, Romano. Having a little brother. I wish I had some siblings." (Country Name) said with a happy smile.

"I don't know about that. You would have to share your country with them, maybe even have people adore your sibling while leaving you in the dust because he's so fucking perfect!!" He began ranting. "Because, of course! He would look more like you grandpa, he could be a better cook, and a better artist! Everyone would love him above you! Would you really want that?!" He asked her, turning a glare towards her.

(Country Name) stood and stared at Romano. She was shocked at what he heard come from his mouth. Did he really think that about himself? She opened her mouth to say something, but he just kept walking without her. "Oi! Wait up, Romano!" She called as she tried to catch up to him.

Romano soon noticed that he had walked to a little pond. He remembered this pond. He came here when he was younger, and before he met (Country Name). The first time he came to the pond, he felt the exact same way earlier. Sitting down, he held his knees close to his chest.

He stared into the water and let his thoughts wander. Ever since (Country Name) had come to Spain's house, she had made him feel like that he wasn't being compared to his little brother. She was okay with him, and him only.

The sound of wings flapping drew his attention from his thoughts and caused him to look up. Staring down at him was a hawk. It's sharp eyes staring right through him. Only his attention was drawn by the small scroll of paper tied to its leg. The Italian stood and walked to the hark, cautiously.

"Hello, there..." He murmured to the bird as he walked closer to it. When he was close enough, the bird flew itself onto his shoulder, it's talons barely digging into the skin. Romano took this chance to untie the scroll from the leg. "Thank you, for this." Romano said to the bird as he unrolled the scroll. He felt the bird fly off, leaving him alone to read.

The Nation of (Country Name) is now independent. Everything has gone as you said. You can return home.

-Your Military Adviser.

Romano's eyes widened. She was independent now... Doesn't that mean she'll leave soon? The one person who saw him just the way he was is going to leave so things can go back to the way they were?

"Romano!!"

He flinched at the sound of her voice. Turning and hiding the scroll behind his back, Romano watched at (Country Name) ran up to him, then bent over panting.

"G-geez! Don't run off like that! I thought that you had gotten lost!" She managed to speak as air returned to her lungs.

"Oh, Mi dispiace." He muttered. "Come on, let's head home. That tomato bastard is going to get home soon."

"Yeah. Let's go." She agreed.

As the two walked back, Romano stuffed the scroll into his back pocket. He had to think this through, this letter was e only thing that would inform (Country Name) of her freedom. Unless that tomato bastard told her, but Romano could handle him.

Once the two countries returned home, Spain hadn't come in yet.

"I suppose I'll get started on dinner." (Country Name) spoke as she moved to the kitchen, with Romano following her. He pulled one of the tomatoes to snack on and leaned against the counter.

"Hey, (Country Name)?"

"Yeah?"

"Have you ever wanted a name besides your Country's name?"

"You mean like a nickname or something?"

"No, like a human name."

She stared at him in confusion. "Why a human name?"

He took a bite of his tomato. "Come on, haven't you ever wondered what it would be like?"

She pondered the thought for a moment or two. "I guess I've wondered several times. But how would I know which name sounds the best for me?" She asked him.

"Let's do this, you choose my name, and I choose yours." Romano suggested.

"As long as it doesn't have 'tomato' in it." She laughed softly.

Romano frowned at her slightly but watched as she turned away from him to continue cooking. Everything about her, he loved. Her (h/c) locks, her shining (e/c) orbs, her personality, her nature, her everything.

"(Name)." He said.

"Hm?"

"That's your name, ragazza. (Name)." He stated with a small smirk.

"(Name)..." She murmured softly. "I like it! And for you... How about Lovino?"

"Lovino?"

"Yeah! Plus, I can call you Lovi if I want!" She laughed.

"Don't even think about it!!" Romano yelled, his face turning a light shade of red.

"Aww, Lovi. You don't need to have a temper tantrum." (Country Name) said to him, adopting a baby voice.

"Shut up, idiota!!" He growled.

Laughing, she patted his shoulder. "Come on, Romano, I'm just messing with you."

He sighed out of annoyance, but his blush hadn't disappeared.

"Mis pequeños!! I'm home!!" Spain called as he walked into the house.

"We're in the kitchen!" (Country Name) called back.

Romano sighed again and leaned against the country as Spain walked in, cheerful as ever. "And how were you two today? Get all of your chores done?"

"Yup. All clean." (Country Name) replied as she stirred the pot and it's boiling contents.

"What are you making, chica?" Spain asked, looking over her shoulder.

"Pasta."

Romano's eyed snapped onto (Country Name) as she turned back to face him with a sympathetic looking smile, almost one that said: "I'm sorry about earlier."

"I'll set the plates." Romano spoke as he moved out of the kitchen and to the dining room with the plates in hand.

~~~

Romano paced in his room early the next morning. He still had the note of (Country Name)'s independence, and he still didn't know what to do with it.

Idiota! Give it to her! If she finds out that you're hiding this, she'll hate you forever!

But if you give it to her, she'll leave and you might never see her again...

But she wants to be free! Give her the note!

But I want her to stay here! I love the girl, dammit!

And she might love you if you give her the damn note!!

I can't!

You have to!

"Romano?"

He quickly turned to see that (Country Name) was standings at his door, her hair neatly brushed and she was already dressed in the morning's clothes.

"Are you alright?" She asked him.

"U-um, yeah. I'm fine." Replied the Italian quickly. "B-but..." He turned to his table and picked up the note. "Th-this was left at my window this morning when I woke up. I think it was meant for you." He said, holding the note out for her.

She raised a brow and took the note.

He hated lying to her, but if she knew this story, then she won't suspect him of anything.

(Country Name)'s eyes widened to the size of plates. She looked up at him with tears beginning to brim at her eyes.

"H-hey, don't cr-!?"

He felt her lips smash onto his, she was holding his cheeks gently in her hands. His feelings of shock didn't have time to fade before she pulled away, her face a deep shade of red.

"I promise, that once everything is stable, I'll come back for you, Romano. I'll make sure you get your independence." She said to him, her determination showing through her words, even if her voice cracked.

Romano felt his heart droop. "So, you are leaving..."

"But I promise, I swear on my country that I will come back. I love you... Lovino." She said to him.

The feelings of sadness were tugging at his heart, but he smiled all the same. "I love you too, (Name)."

She gave him one last tight hug before she ran down the hall to find Spain.

Romano watched out his window as her figure walked away from he house with a bag slung over her shoulder. He knew she wouldn't look back, it would be too painful for the both of them.

"It's sad to see her leave, eh?"

Romano looked over his shoulder to see Spain leaning on his door frame. His response was a mere grunt as he turned back to the open window.

He heard Spain's footsteps come closer to him and felt a hand on his shoulder. "I wouldn't worry too much, Roma. If (Country Name) says she'll do something, she'll do it."

"I know that, bastard." Romano replied. "I'm just going to miss her."

Spain smiled sympathetically. "I will too, Roma. I will too."

Romano sighed softly and he watched as the figure of his love disappeared.

She'll come back. She promised.

And she keeps her promises.

Always.

~~~

"Fratello!!"

"Sí?"

"You should be celebrating! We're finally independent!" Cheered the happy Italian, his bright amber eyes shining in the light.

Romano sighed. "I know, Veneziano, I know. It's just... I'm waiting to celebrate it with someone."

Italy tipped his head in confusion, causing his curl to bounce. "And who might that be? A pretty lady? Romano! You never told me you met a lady! What's her name? What's she like? Does she like cats? Does she like pasta?"

Romano ignored his brother and walked away with his wine glass in had as his brother rambled on. Taking a small sip of his wine, he watched as people all around him celebrated, cheering, dancing, and enjoying the fact they were finally free. Of course, he was happy about that.

But he couldn't truly be happy unless he was with the one he loved.

Many years had gone by since he last saw his love. He had grown with the body of a young adult, how she looked, he had no idea. She had been an independent nation for years, and still, things were unsteady for her, that's why she hadn't come back yet.

But, in the dark part of his mind, he couldn't help but think she had forgotten about him. Sighing sadly, he took another sip of his wine.

"Oi! Tomato boy!!"

"Wha-AAH!!"

Romano was knocked back by a tomato straight to the face. He quickly shook himself off and glared in the direction of where the tomato was thrown. "Bastardo!! Who the fuck threw that?!" When the last of tomato was out of his face, he saw who threw the fruit.

There in front of him, a couple yards away, stood a young woman, his age. Her long (h/c) hair was shining in the light, her bright (e/c) eyes sparkling with love and joy, and a smile graced her lips. She wore a simple (f/c) dress with a (second f/c) sash around her waist.

Romano didn't wait a moment before running to her, dropping his wine glass, and taking her into his arms, forcefully pressing his lips against hers as tears brimmed at his own eyes. He felt her arms wrap around his neck and he wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her close.

The two held the position as long as they could before the need for air became too great. Reluctantly, the two pulled away from each other and locked teary eyes to teary eyes.

"Idiota, what the fucking hell took you so long?" Romano asked her as tears flowed from his eyes.

"Lovino, I came as soon as I possibly could. I said I would help you become independent, and that's exactly what I did." She replied.

"What? How?"

"That's why things were so unsettled in my place. I was trying to get independence for you. Believe me, it was hard work." She said with a small laugh.

Romano shook his head in defeat before pressing his lips onto hers again. "Grazie. Ti amo, (Name)."

"I love you too, Lovino."

~End~