"Come on, Elsa," I pleaded, nearly bouncing with enthusiasm. "!If you don't hurry we'll be late on the first day"
Elsa continued walking at her steady pace, paying my annoying nagging little attention at all. I groaned and huffed a sigh, showing my disappointment. Crossing my arms, i saw her smirk only momentarily before regaining her normal mask. I see the smallest hint of humor in her eyes, and though I'm still upset I can't help but smile. After all, even being her best friend I rarely catch her showing much emotion. I slowly start skipping, picking up the pace and going ahead of Elsa. She didn't argue; she wasn't one to complain. But I stopped just a short ways ahead anyways, looking back.
I couldn't help but marvel her once moved so gracefully, like royalty, more even. Her platinum hair sat in its normal plait, flowing flawlessly down her back. How she did it, I didn't know. I was honestly sorta jealous of it, though I'd never admit that to her. Her gaze remains transfixed ahead, head held high, yet, though I know she'd never admit it, I could have sworn she glanced at me occasionally as she proceeded to walk. Her cheeks were flushed only slightly, giving them a pink coloration. The long flowing violet skirt she had on, matching the blouse she'd chosen, went perfectly with her pale but fair skin. I was honestly shocked we were somehow best friends, being how different we were. While she was quiet, transfixed by books and studies, awkwardly antisocial, and far from the athletic type, I was loud and spontaneous, childish, and hated the idea of having to go a day without playing outside at least once.
"Anna, it isn't polite to stare," Elsa remarked when she saw me watching her once again, I felt my face flush and quickly I looked down. It is when the person you're staring at is beautiful, I thought. Of course I didn't say it out loud though; I didn't want to send Elsa into another silence act like I did with my last comment. I smiled lightly at the thought.
"What are you thinking right now?" I looked up, surprised by the suddenness of the question. Elsa, however, continued staring ahead, not looking to see my reaction. Knowing she was waiting for an answer I swallowed and looked down at the ground.
"I...I was just thinking how-"
"Hey, Anna! Elsa!" a deep voice called from behind us, cutting through my words. I turned immediately and smiled when I saw Kristoff. His faithful companion, Sven, trotted happily beside him, tongue hanging out, tail wagging. Once he saw me looking he barked excitedly and ran right toward me. I raised my hands defensively as he bawled into me, nearly sending us both to the ground. I laughed out loud at the dog's eagerness to see me. I always did have a way with animals.
"Get down, boy. You don't wanna ruin the fair maiden's outfit, do you?" Kristoff asked him, crossing his arms as he frowned playfully at Sven. Sven seemed to understand him, or the tone of his voice, and immediately sank back to the ground, almost smiling as he stared up at everyone, tail still beating the ground furiously.
"Ah, my lady," he said reaching for my hand. I let him take it, and he placed a gentle kiss on the back, making me blush. He stood up straight then did a small bow to Elsa, knowing she wasn't one for human contact. She simple nodded, face still expressionless. I laughed at the way Kristoff seemed to stiffen at this. Though he tried being a gentlemen, I knew it was hard for him around Elsa. The two just didn't get along all that well.
"May I accompany you to school for the first day?" I smiled, looking at Elsa. I wanted Kristoff with us, and I hoped Elsa did too. She returned my gaze, and I saw something in her crystal eyes I couldn't quite place. She nodded, and I nearly squealed. I turned to Kristoff and wrapped my arms around his waist in a happy hug.
"Of course you can," I exclaimed. He chuckled and returned the gesture, and when we pulled away I turned and smiled down at Sven.
"Are you coming along as well?" I asked, knowing perfectly well the answer. He barked enthusiastically at me, and jumped up, ready to follow us. I smiled brighter and looked back at Kristoff.
"Are you sure he's allowed to come?"
"They've never stopped him before. Besides, as long as he doesn't go inside the school he's not a problem. Everyone knows he's far from mean or anything. I honestly don't think that dog could hurt a fly on purpose." I nodded, knowing he was right.
We started walking then, Elsa seeming a bit closer to me than before. I didn't mind; I was glad she seemed to want to be with me. Kristoff walked ahead just a few paces, Sven loyally at his side. He and I continued talking and laughing lightly, but every now and then I made sure to include Elsa. She didn't seem to want to speak much, I guessed from Kristoff's presence, so I didn't push. She was more open when we were alone, and I took that as the best I was gonna get. After all, you can't change someone.
"We're here," Kristoff exclaimed at last, stopping in front of the gate. I grinned, hoping this year would be as quick and painless as last. Then my grin faded as I thought of Elsa. I chanced a glance and found her staring at the open gates, the smallest look of uncertainty in her gaze. I didn't like it; she wasn't supposed to be sad. This was a new year, a chance to start fresh. Not knowing what else to do, I found myself reaching for and taking her hand. Her skin was soft and warm, and she tensed from my sudden touch.
"It's okay, Elsa. I promise to keep you safe this year," I tried to assure her. I saw her swallow, and when she looked over at me I saw her eyes soften, if only the smallest amount. She relaxed slightly.
"I know you will, Anna."