[Deep down Kuma at least knew who Canada was. After all, he stuck with him throughall those years without ever abandoning him. And besides. For as often as Canada forgets who Kuma is, he still knows his bear out of all the others and everything. They just had such an interesting relationship.]

A- at least I don't think it can get much worse. [His words were a bit muffled as he hugged him even tighter, trying his best to hide his sobs.

It could worse, yes, but he didn't want to think of that. He was simply trying to focus on the positive.]

It's getting better. Maybe you needed some time away from Alfred to sort out your relationship with him. You know you weren't on the best terms with him. You need to put yourself first sometimes Matthew, now just happens to be the time to do it.

[His shirt was getting wet, he's also left his overcoat downstairs. Canada, a big strong country he'd grown to adore. Was crying.]

[Feeling more than just a little bit embarrassed, he pulled away a bit and wiped at his eyes with the back of his hand. It was silly to be crying over such things.]

I- I know. I just... I had just thought that everything was better before this last sudden blow-up of his. But I guess I had just read everything horribly wrong somehow. Funny, isn't it. Usually he's the one who can't read the atmosphere and all.

[Jack p[laced a hand on Canada's head, urging him back to his shoulder. Telling him it was okay to cry without even saying it. It wasn't silly to cry over this.]

Maybe he knew it was almost time for him to leave. Maybe the people of Vatheon know when they're about to depart for their own worlds again. I-i don't know.

[He's getting better at comforting.]

I know. F- for whatever reason we show up or leave, it's not up to us. Or others. I- it's just up to the city. There's a grander scheme to things, after all, not just the immediate or what one wishes. [After smiling just a bit, he put his head back down on Jack's shoulder and hugged ihm tighter.]

Maybe the grand scheme will bring him back. He's already been here twice, you know.

[Shhhh, holding Canada so tightly. Holding and hugging and loving on him.]

If he does, I'll have to try harder not to get so pointlessly mad at him, too.

[Clinging tightly, he sighed softly and just snuggled as close as he could.]

Go to sleep, Matthew. A good few hours of shut eye will be good for you.

...that was generally my plan. But thank you, Jack. I appreciate it. [Finally letting go, he went to lay back down.]

[Jack said nothing more, and let Matthew lay down. But Jack didn't leave, he stayed right here, to sit next to him until he fell asleep.]

Y- you don't have to stay if you don't want, you know. I'll be fine. [He could get Kuma to crawl back up, after all.]