Shelby sat off in the corner of the not-yet-started world meeting, reading Russia: A Short History. She originally refused to come- she had too much homework to do and not a second to spare. But Alfred was somehow able to convince her that a small break would be okay. She only allowed herself this luxury if she brought a bit of homework with her.

She was actually just wrapping up this book, getting to the summary of Yeltsin and Putin's presidencies and the topic of whether modern Russia could truly be considered a democracy. Suddenly, she realized someone was looming over her, and before she had time to collect herself, an accented voice spoke. "I see you're brushing up on my history. That is very kind of you."

Shelby jumped and stood up, almost dropping her book as she stared up at Ivan. She then glanced around awkwardly. "Alfred said you're not allowed to talk to me."

"Yes, but since when did I start listening a little child?" Russia smiled. "Did you enjoy the book?" He pressed, obviously curious. "Did you find my history interesting?"

Shelby stared at the cover, frowning. "Actually... I found it sad. The Russian people... they've never really known a free life. First it was mongols, then ruthless tsars. Communists that sent them to camp, bad economy, poor living conditions..." Shelby trailed off.

"It just, it made me think of how much you've been through. I don't know much about how countries work, but I know Alfred feels what his people feel. Right now, his people are split and polarized, so he's been having a lot of mood swings and headaches. So if all these people were feeling pain, over centuries and centuries... well, they were the majority. You must have felt their pain too, right?"

When she glanced up at the question, she froze. Russia was staring at the ground in an angle where she could no longer see his eyes past his hair. He looked tense. She took a step back. And she offended him?

Suddenly, he took a step forward. On instinct, she flinched and held her hands up in front of her face "I'm sorry I didn't-". Before she could get the entire apology out, she found herself not being attacked by Russia, but being... hugged.

He wrapped his arms around her and rested his cheek on the top of her head. Shelby couldn't see his eyes, but if she could, she would see that they were welling with tears of both sadness and gratitude. "Thank you, Shelby."

Shelby smiled slightly and returned the hug. "You're welcome, Ivan."

Meanwhile, across the room, America and Canada were watching this scene unfold.

"Now he's stealing my girlfriend."

Canada rolled his eyes. "He's not stealing your girlfriend. They're having a bonding moment."

Alfred stared wide-eyed at Matthew. "Just like Keith and Lance from Voltron." He whispered harshly, but looking back at Russia and Shelby. "He's even cradling her in his arms!"

"Oh my god shut up."