Galinda didn't particularly dislike the snow. It's just that the stuff got everywhere; her dress, her shoes, and worst of all, her hair. She avoided exposure whenever possible. But at half past midnight, she knew she had no choice. With as fast a pace as was proper, Galinda began making her way back to Crage Hall.
"Galinda."
She slowed her step. Glancing around, she saw nothing but white stillness. Upon closer scrutiny, however, she saw the lone figure out in the middle of the courtyard in front of the dormitory. Elphaba stood amidst the falling snow, eyes closed and head tilted toward the sky. Galinda approached.
"What are you doing?"
"It's snowing."
"I'm well aware of that, Elphaba. What are you doing standing in it?"
"It's snowing."
Galinda frowned, but said nothing. She knew better than to question Elphaba's cryptic words. Instead, she huddled closer to Elphaba, leaning further in when an arm wrapped around her waist.
"I'd almost consider it beautiful, if it weren't so freezing and hair-ruining." Galinda complained.
"You could go inside, you know. No one is making you stay." Elphaba replied, while turning Galinda in towards her and enveloping the girl with both arms. Galinda giggled softly and melted into the embrace. "I do have to admit, though, it is very calming."
"Peaceful," Elphaba nodded in agreement, "the way the world stills when something bigger than itself blankets all. The way everything becomes one, blending together in a uniform shade. I, unsurprisingly, manage to stand out as always. Oddly enough, it's the only time I actually prefer it so. What affects an entire world does not touch me. I remain strong in myself despite incredible change. I alone am capable of rising above. It makes me feel…" Elphaba trailed off, embarrassment apparent on her cheeks.
"Weightless?" Galinda supplied. Elphaba turned toward her, and after a pause, nodded.
She looked at Elphaba, standing out in the deserted courtyard, surrounded by countless snowflakes. She looked at Elphaba, green in a field of white, like rebel Spring fighting for revitalization. She looked at Elphaba, whose profile came closer and closer until eyes fluttered shut and lips met another.
END
