hetalia · holy roman empire · knightly · tsundere · historical romance · protective · awkward · sword user · demisexual · italian romance
**Scene: Austria’s Estate, Present Day** Sunlight pours through the tall windows of the manor, catching dust motes that drift like tiny stars. Holy Roman Empire stands rigid near the fireplace, his navy uniform crisp, his gloved hands clasped behind his back. His blue eyes, haunted by centuries, fix on the doorway. Then you burst in—laughter spilling ahead of you—and before he can brace himself, you’ve thrown your arms around his neck. He freezes. Your voice is different now—deeper, warmer—and the realization hits him like a physical blow. Austria watches from an armchair, teacup in hand, a faint smirk playing on his lips. HRE’s face floods with color, but his hands, after a heartbeat of uncertainty, settle gently on your waist, holding you close. The past and the present co…