A/N: Okay, pretty obvious title. But it fits so there. Warning for the last part of this, if you haven't watched HTTYD2 yet then you might not know this song. Read at your own risk folks. Don't blame me for spoilers. I've warned ya

A PRIZE NOT WON

Some Prizes are won, but Rewards are earned

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The Date

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Needless to say, Hiccup did end up having dinner with Jack and his family. Of course, North and Toothiana made sure to embarrass their son every chance they got, if only they had more time, they would've even showed some very embarrasing pictures of Jack. The white-haired teen was blushing madly the whole time, and grumbled throughout the whole dinner.

But his foster parents weren't stupid. They can see that there was something about Jack that looked different. And in the first time since his incident, when Jack smiled, it was genuine. And they could only suspect Hiccup had something to do about it.

When dinner was over with, Jack offered to drive Hiccup home. Thiana yelled at her son to take the family van and not his bike, saying there was already snow and it was dark and dangerous. Jack didn't feel like putting Hiccup through the danger, either, so he agreed easily enough. Although Hiccup kept protesting he can take a cab.

And Jack only understood why Hiccup needed to talk a cab and not a bus.

He didn't expect the travel to take him almost an hour and a half, let alone to find Hiccup's home to be this huge of a mansion. He heard rumors that the nerd's father was some big shot, but now he was seeing it for himself.

"It's like I'm in an Episode of the Life of the Rich and Fabulous," Jack remarked, eyeing the gates and all that. He even had to go through a checkpoint, and they only let him in when they saw Hiccup in the car with him. "Damn Hiccup, I'd never believe you go to Burgess Local Highschool if I didn't see you there first."

Hiccup smiled weakly, "I try not to make a big deal out of it," he said as Jack drove around the courtyard and pulling over to where he saw a big door. And it had pillars lined up to the sides leading up to it, too. "Thanks. Why don't you come in for a drink?" The brunette asked as he stepped outside.

"No, I'm good." Jack stepped out of the car too though. "but I can at least walk you to the door."

Hiccup nodded, and flushed a bit when he noticed Jack was accidentally brushing his hand against his every now and then. Even when they reached the door, they didn't just simply say good night and be done with it.

But really, when you're interested in someone, is it that easy to say goodbye?

"So... I guess I'll see you around school next week?" Hiccup asked shyly. "I mean, you won't ignore me this time?"

Jack smiled a bit, shaking his head. "No, that's all gone and done with." he guaranteed. "but, uhm, I was wondering if we could meet up earlier... you know, before monday."

"Oh," Hiccup looked eager, "you need help in physics or something?"

Jack rubbed the back of his head shyly, "Uhm, actually, no. I was thinking of something more along the lines of... a date?" he looked down quickly, a blush rising to his cheeks and to his big ears. "Uhm... I mean, if it's not working too fast... Uhm, I know you got something to do tomorrow, uhm in the public library... part time... but if you're free this Sunday..."

"Jack," Hiccup spoke up, and Jack raised his head to look at the boy slowly. The brunette's cheeks were also red, maybe even moreso. "I'd really like to go and I'd love to say yes, but..."

Jack bit his lip, there was always a but. What was he going to say? That all he could offer was friendship? That he wasn't interested in him that way?

"... I'm sorry to put you through this, but you're going to have to ask my dad first."

"Ask me what?"

Startled, Hiccup screamed, launching himself into Jack's arms. Jack stared up, wide-eyed at the large bearded man before him. And he thought his foster father was big. If this was Hiccup's father, then maybe he was adopted too.

Stoick narrowed his eyes, "Ahem," he coughed into his fist. "hands off my son, lad."

"Huh?" Jack blinked before realizing where his arms were positioned. "Oh!" he immediately let go of Hiccup. "I-uh-ahem!" he cleared his throat. "I-I'm Jackson Overland, sir." he held out his hand.

Stoick widened his eyes for a brief moment, sizing up the boy. He then took a grasp of Jack's hand and gave a mighty squeeze the teenager had ti bite back the urge to scream in pain. "So you're Jackson. Somehow I pictured you differently, but I approve the way you're presented now." he nodded.

Jack pulled his hand back when Stoick unleashed it, trying not to be hasty about it. "Erm, t-thank you, sir." he gulped, pretty sure this man was gonna have him for dinner.

"Call me Stoick, then." The man leaned on the door. "So, ask me what?"

"Uh-uhm, I just-" Jack stammered, when he felt Hiccup squeeze his hand briefly for encouragement. "Uhm," he swallowed. "IwaswonderingifIcantakeyoursonoutthissunday, sir!" Jack squeaked.

Stoick rolled his eyes, pressing his hands against his ears. "Egads, my boy, speak up but slower. I couldn't catch your meaning," he complained.

Well, what do you know? Jack sighed. I do make a mess of things. he shook his head, trying again. "Uhm, that is... I was just wondering... if it's all right with you... uhm, can I... MAY! ... uhm... Ahem, may I take your son out this sunday?"

Stoick stared at Jack, and the teenager sure he was a dead man. Then, he spoke. "Hiccup, it's late. Go kiss your mum good night and head to your room," he instructed.

Hiccup frowned, crossing his arms. "Dad, you didn't..." he trailed off.

"I know what I didn't," Stoick forestalled. "just do what I said and go, son."

Hiccup sighed, casting Jack a sad look before leaving. Jack's shoulder slumped as the brunette disappeared completely from his sight, and he turned to leave when a large hand rested on his shoulder. He stiffened.

Stoick spoke gruffly, "If ya really wanna date my son," he begun. "prove it by coming tomorrow afternoon, right after Hiccup leaves for the library. Don't let him know you're coming back. Then you'll get my answer." And right after, the door was shut.

And Jack was just relieved he was still alive.

~o~

Jack stayed at home the next day, actually helping out in the house chores. His eyes kept glancing at the clock, though. He planned on leaving around two, Hiccup leaves for his part time around four. But with the travel time and just incase he might get caught in traffic, he wanted to make sure that he'd be on time.

Even his parents noticed how restless he was.

"I'm going, I have an appointment today." Thiana said, coming down the stairs. She was the local dentist. North runs a shop at town, but it was closed on Saturdays. "see you two later then."

She left, and Jack casts a confused look to his father. Normally, he'd be driving her there. His mom can drive but it was a gesture of love from North. He hoped they weren't having any problems. The last thing he ever wanted to deal with is his parents' divorce.

"North," He called, pulling the vaccum to a stop. "is everything all right with you and Thiana?"

North looked up from his newspaper, in the middle of dipping a cookie to a glass of milk. He blinked his big eyes at his son, "Yes son," he replied. "why you ask?"

"Well, you're not driving her to work today."

"Ah, that." North smiled, he stood up. "walk with me Jack,"

Jack blinked before following his dad to the back door. "what's up?" he asked as they stepped out, Jack not bothering to slip some shoes on.

"It's about boy, Hiccup right?" North looked at his adopted son. "he special to you, no?"

Jack flushed, digging his hands to his hoodie's pockets.

"No need to feel ashamed, boy." North nudged him, almost causing Jack to topple over. "Your mom and I like boy."

Jack looked up a bit. "You're-uhm," he shrugged, "-not mad that I might be... you know... gay?"

"What? 'course not, Jack." North laughed heartily. "'course your mom wished she could have grankids, but she loves you so long as you're happy, she'll be fine with it." he shrugged. "it's your life, Jack. We're here to support you."

Jack smiled, the fact that North and Thiana weren't his real parents stopped mattering years ago. He loved them with his whole heart, and he's sure they feel the same. They were the best parents anyone could ask for, foster or no. Even when they couldn't have children for themselves didn't stop them from wanting a child.

"Thanks dad, I appreciate this."

North smiled, resting his hand on Jack's shoulder. ""Of course, son. Anytime," he said.

"And you can just tell mom Hiccup and I could always adopt." Jack shrugged, "the world could always use one less parentless child anyway."

North smirked. "You and Hiccup already that serious?" he asked.

"Uh... what ... oh god, did I just say that outloud?" Jack groaned, bringing both hands to his face, before dragging it back down. "well, I'm not exactly sure about us, yet. But... I'm serious about him... I mean, I think I like him."

North nodded approvingly. "Well, good. I don't want my boy treating his dates as flings. Even if it's just testing waters." he said.

"Uh, that's just it, dad. I'm not dating him... I mean, I asked but..."

North frowned, "Did he not accept?" he asked. "but he seemed interested as well."

"He is," Jack replied then catches himself. "I mean, at least, I think he does. But... well, I have to get his father's approval first... that's why I'm going over later."

North placed a large hand on his chin. "Approval, huh?" he hummed in thought, "who is his father? He might've been customer before."

"I doubt it." Jack shrugged. "He's a bigshot CEO kind of guy, uhm... St... St... he called himself Stoick."

North's eyes shot open, then he laughed heartily once more. "Ohoho, I see. Well, then for his approval..." he looked thoughtful then snapped his fingers. "Idea!"

~o~

That afternoon, Jack took his bike and rode to the Haddock household, a paperbag in his hand. He had to go through the checkpoint and the guards looked him up, patting his person. They were uptight in the boy's opinion, but he didn't know what it was like being rich. So he stuck it up.

He looked down to the paperbag as he made his way to the door. "Dad, I sure hope this works..." he muttered under his breath before ringing the door bell, then he waited. And he was relieved it wasn't the man who answered the door, but a beautiful lady with several long braids hanging down her back.

"Why, hello there, my boy." She smile kindly. "you must be Jackson, the one Stoick's expecting?"

Jack nodded shyly. She really was beautiful. "Yes, ma'am." he answered.

She nodded, "Nice to meet you. I'm Valka, well, come along in then dear. He's waiting at the living room," she rested her hand on Jack's lower arm and brought him inside.

Jack found the man sitting on a large arm chair, carving something out of wood. The teenager widened his eyes at all the weaponry displays, like the two axes crossing over to make an 'X' over a shield with a Viking insignia on it, above the fireplace; most of the others are antique too. Even the furniture. So the flatscreen plasma television seemed really out of place.

"Stoick, he came."

The man lifted his head up, acknowledging his wife and Jack. "Have a seat, lad." he gestured to the couch with the wooden carving of a duck.

"Make yourself comfortable," Valka sat Jack down, bending a bit to whisper. "don't worry, those weapons may be real, but the blades are dull. Just don't make him mad."

Jack swallowed as the nice lady left the room He coughed, as if clearing his throat. "Uhm... good afternoon, sir. I-uh... That's a nice duck." Jack wanted to mentally slap himself. That was a stupid start.

"Hmm, yes, whittling." Stoick looked at the duck carving. "it's helps me calm down."

On second thought, good start. VERY good start.

Stoick sets the duck down to a side table and turned his attention fully to Jack. "So, you actually came. I have to say I'm surprised." he mused. "Good. At least I know this isn't some joke to you."

"Yes sir, uhm, oh... here." Jack held out the package. "my dad and I baked these, and I thought you'd like to try some."

Stoick raised a brow, accepting the package. He looked inside, and blinked. "Fruitcake?" he asked, looking at Jack again. "how did you know I like this?"

"Uhm, I didn't?" Jack rubbed the back of his head. "my dad just said it might be a good idea to give you some so..."

Stoick raised a brow. "Hmm... Does your father, happen to be Nicholas North?" he asked.

"Huh?! Uh. Y-yes!" Jack blinked with wide eyes. "but... how do you..."

Stoick leaned back on his chair. "He's a collague of mine, and a good friend. He mentioned he was adopting a son last I talked to him years ago, but I didn't know it was you." he said. "I couldn't guess with your last name being Overland. Why didn't you adopt the family name?"

"Uhm, well, some final papers still need to be finalized. They haven't really fully paid yet, mom's denistry salary and dad's savings from the shop doesn't really cut it so it's taking a while." Jack tapped his fingers on his lap restlessly. "but, you know, the foster home was kind enough to let me live with them already though,"

Stoick nodded, placing the package on the mahagony coffee table. "Well, North and I always got along. So as a favor, I suppose I can go easy on ya." he stood up, "All right, I'll let you go out with my son tomorrow."

"Really?! Awesome!" Jack jumped out of the couch, and Stoick raised a brow. "Uhm, I mean, thank you for the chance, sir." he stood straight.

Stoick went over to the fireplace, "Now whether or not I'll let you two go dating regularly will depend on this first one, so I advise you not to mess this one up." Jack swallowed hard when he sees the man take one axe that was on the shield. "do you like antiques, Jackson?"

"Uhmm... I'm not overly fond of antiques, but I don't hate them, sir." Jack answered carefully. "Why do you ask?"

Stoick touched the blade of the axe carefully. "Well, if you treat them carefully, they can be very useful. Even if these blades are dull, they can still cut if you used 'em right." he narrowed his eyes at the teenager. "so just to give you a fair warning. If you do anything, and I mean ANYTHING, to hurt my son..." he patted the blade like it was a pet. "Well, I may be old, but I've got good aim. My wife is a beauty and very kind, but she keeps a snake at the backyard. And Hiccup has a cat as fierce as a dragon, somehow a crossbreed between a regular cat and a black panther however Valka managed that is beyond a CEO to know. It's still growing. Are we clear on that? Don't give us any reason to hunt you down."

"Y-yes sir!" Jack squeaked. "l'Il treat him right."

Stoick huffed, putting the axe back in display. "We'll see about that," he said, crossing his arms. "Well?"

"Uh... huh? What?"

"Well, my lad, tell me your plan for tomorrow." Stoick rolled his eyes like it should be obvious. "you do have something in plan, right?"

Jack blinked, not expecting that. "Oh, that. Yes sir, uhm, I have some ideas but..." he rubbed the back of his head.

"Is there an issue?"

Jack sighed. "Well, obviously sir, Hiccup is very well-to-do. I'm determined to use my savings on this date to show how serious I am, but money-wise, it's not enough to make an impression. I know where to bring him to make it meaningful but... I haven't gotten dinner covered yet and I don't know how to end the date with a bang. I want him to know that I'm serious about this," he looked at the man shyly. "I know this might be cheating but... can you give me an idea on what I can do?"

"Hmm," Stoick sat back down to his chair. "why does this matter to you so much?" He didn't think things were that serious yet.

Jack squared his shoulders to answer. "Hiccup saw the real me, and brought him back. Your son told me he wanted to see my true side, and I want this side to deserve him." he said. "I'm not sure what my feelings are yet entirely, but it's not far from affection."

"Well, then my boy," A voice joined them, and the two raised their heads to find Valka entering. "I think it's time to see how much of a Viking you can be for our child." she looked at her husband.

Something seemed to passed between the couple, Stoick nodded his head, clapping his hands together. "Well, I suppose it's too early, but I think a lesson of the dancing and the dreaming seems appropriate for now." he said.

"The what?"

Valka smiled kindly, standing beside her husband. "You'll understand soon enough." she said. "And we'll see if you're not afraid of drowning."

~o~

"I can't believe it," Hiccup laid on his bed, talking over his phone. "you were here earlier and I didn't know about it?" He grunted a bit when his cat jumped on top of him, he put his phone far from him for a while. "Toothless, bud, can't breath..."

"Your dad told me I couldn't tell you! You have to admit, I have to be extra careful in pleasing him. Anyway, we're going out tomorrow, and that's that."

The brunette raised a brow. "Why do you sound so tired?" Hiccup asked, shoving the feline off of him.

"Dancing is good excercise."

"Huh?"

"Nothing, so, you're good with tomorrow? How about I pick you up around 3pm?"

Hiccup nodded, even if Jack can't see it. "Sounds good," he said coolly, trying to hide his true excitement. "See you then."

"All right. Good night, Hiccup."

~o~

Right on time, Jack picked Hiccup using the family van. Stoick nodded at Jack and Hiccup as he was leaving for an emergency meeting. Jack was relieved to see that the man no longer seemed threatening.

"Seriously," Jack sighed, "I'm glad your dad has eased up on me. Guess all it took was a visit yesterday and fruitcake."

Hiccup laughed behind a hand. "Well, of course he eased up on you. He's gotten a good look on your face." he said.

"Excuse me?"

"Well, now he knows what to describe to the police if you ever hurt me." Hiccup shrugged nonchalantly. "he can rest easy now since he can make sure you won't get away with anything."

Jack was silent for a while. "Your kidding." he said.

"Nope."

"Damn Hiccup, your dad is a madman."

"A loving madman." Hiccup corrected, then he bit his lip. "but... it's going to be okay... your not planning on hurting me, right?"

Jack looked over to Hiccup, as he pulled over at a stoplight, turning red. "No, not intentionally. But... what if I make a mess of things and then I hurt you by accident and then you..." he trailed off as he felt a hand over his.

"If you did, I'll forgive you for it. Then dad won't get mad," he answered. "I believe in you, Jack." Jack smiled at that.

And the spotlight went green.

~o~

They arrived in town around 4:40pm, Jack explained to Hiccup that he had two things in plan already but to start off, he wanted Hiccup to pick something to do first. And he'd pay for it, of course.

"I can pay for it, Jack," Hiccup pouted. "not to sound snotty, but I live in a mansion. Money isn't an issue for me."

Jack shook his head, not having it. "I know your loaded with money, but I don't want our first date to be about that." he took Hiccup's gloved hands in his and brought them to his chest. "I want it to be about proving my worth to you. If we have more dates in the future, then we can take turns. But for now, let me treat you the best I can."

"Who knew the real Jackson Overland was such a romantic?" Hiccup teased, cheeks flushed. From the cold or the gesture, it wasn't sure. "All right then, Jackson Overland, how about something basic? Let's go catch a movie."

Jack nodded, wrapping his arms around Hiccup's shoulders. "Your wish is my command, Princess." he teased and earned a jab for that.

"If your gonna give titles to refer to my status, you could make it at least the right gender ..."

Jack just laughed.

They ended up watching Jack and the Cuckoo-clock heart. The rest were horror movies and Hiccup found out Jack didn't really have a stomach for the gore and sinister themes. Plus, Jack was such a child at heart, he enjoyed the movie so much he got emotional in some parts. And he somehow felt the character, Jack, not allowed to love. Like himself when he felt he couldn't be his true self.

They talked about it a bit when they left the movie house and went through the parking lot.

"You cried."

"I did not cry!"

"I heard sobbing~"

"Not from me." Jack huffed. "let's just drop it, okay?"

Hiccup smiled, nudging him. "well, it was really heart-warming." he pointed out.

"Yeah! It totally was, especially when Jack-"

Hiccup shook his head. "I didn't mean that Jack, I mean you Jack." he faced the white-haired teen. "I mean, the crying Jackson Overland is the one that got me interested. I hope you'd continue to share your tears with me."

Jack blushed, but he managed to snort. "That was totally cheesy what you said right now," he teased.

"And that was totally killing the moment," Hiccup swatted his chest. "but yeah, I guess that was pretty cheesy."

"Like a cheese dog."

"Okay, now that was corny." Hiccup rolled his eyes. Jack grinned, opening his mouth. "if you say corn dog, I will hurt you, Jackson Overland."

Jack laughed. Suddenly, they heard voices and approaching foot steps. They turned and saw those annoying dicks from before.

"Well, whaddya know guys, it is Jack Frost."

"Yeah, but dang, what happened? You lost a bet?"

"Must have. I mean, no way would he be caught dead in this get-up."

Jack glared at them, clenching his fist. Hiccup placed his hand on Jack's shoulder. "Just walk out, Jack," he said lowly. "you don't need to deal with any of this."

Jack nodded, and was about to continue on his way with Hiccup. But they were stopped. "Hey nerd, buzz off!" They grabbed Hiccup and pulled away from Jack. The brunette yelped as he landed on the pavement. "we were talking here!"

Jack's blood boiled, shoving at them. "You're the ones who should buzz off!" he went for Hiccup, helping him up, picking up the fallen glasses and handing it back to the brunette. "we were in the middle of a date."

Hiccup widened his eyes at Jack, and the other guys were taking a while to process that information. But it gave the boys the diversion enough to head for the van.

"Jack," Hiccup spoke lowly as Jack got on the driver's seat. "are you okay with that?" he asked as Jack pulled the seatbelt over the brunette's waist.

Jack settled at his seat himself, also pulling on his seatbelt. "Okay with what?" he asked, starting the ignition.

"Well, telling them we were on a date," Hiccup pointed out, "I mean, I could understand if you, you know, took your time before coming out, sorting out if this is what you really want."

Jack didn't say a word at first, just reaching out to squeeze Hiccup's hand as he pulled out the lot. "If being gay is what I want?" he shrugged. "well, I don't know about that, but I know one thing's for sure. I like being with you, and I thought we agreed I'd stop lying about who I am."

Hiccup smiled a bit. "Thanks." he said.

"No thanks necessary," Jack shrugged, making a turn. "in all honesty, I should be thanking you."

Hiccup chuckled. "Well, you're doing that now by treating me out." he said. "speaking of, what's up next?"

"Wait a bit more... It's a surprise." Jack said, pulling over a street. "and we're he-Uh oh." he undid his seatbelt and went to a certain building.

Hiccup blinked, "H-hey, hold on Jack!" he followed Jack out, wrapping his jacket around his person. The temperature has definitely dropped since the sun went down. He stood beside Jack. "Hey, what's up?"

"Uhm, well," Jack pointed to a certain building. "it's closed."

Hiccup raised his head, in the dimlight he read the sign. "An Ice skating rink?" he faced the taller boy. "you wanted to go ice skating? But I thought-"

"Yeah, the trauma..." Jack dug his hands into his pockets. "and... remember Emma? When... I said that we... found her body?" he swallowed.

"Yes, why?"

"Well... turns out, she drowned in a river. Drowning, heh. Figures..." Jack kicked at the ground, before leaning against Hiccup. "well, I really wanted to put it all behind me now. And I thought, it would be a good chance to do it in our date, with your help and all. But I kinda wanted to start in baby steps, you know, an artificial rink before an actual frozen lake."

Hiccup intertwined his fingers with Jack's. "Well, you'll get your chance, we can always do something else." he encouraged. But Jack didn't seem to be listening.

"Well, no time like the present I guess," Jack took a deep breath, before hauling Hiccup back to the van. "c'mon then, let's go."

Hiccup tried not to stumble on his feet. "uh to where exactly?" he asked.

"The lake, of course."

Hiccup widened his eyes.

~o~

"Jack, really, we don't have to do this yet." Hiccup said as Jack stepped into the ice. What are the odds that the older boy had two skates packed? Although his prosthetic barely fit in. "I mean, the last thing I want is a mental breakdown." he said lightly, but he was really nervous for Jack.

Jack smiled tightly, skating to Hiccup and holding his hands. "I'll be fine," he said. "You're here, so I'll be okay."

"But-" Hiccup bit his lip. "are you sure you really want to do this?"

"Completely." Jack nodded, skating backwards and pulling Hiccup after him. "now let's skate."

Hiccup smiled a bit, then shivered a little. He wasn't usually out this late, and it was really cold. Jack noticed and took his scarf off, wrapping it around Hiccup's neck. So now he only had his hoodie on and an sweatshirt inside it, but he liked the cold.

"Well, show me what you've got, Jack Frost." the brunette said. "dazzle me."

Jack grinned, giving a thumbs up. "You got it, Hic." he skated around a bit, considering that maybe it was good luck the rink was closed. For one thing, there would be other people there. In this lake, it was only him and Hiccup, their only light coming from a full moon.

For the first time, he felt free.

Hiccup had a tender expression on his face as he watched Jack. It touched his heart that he gave the teenager the strength to face his fears and put his demons behind him. He was satisfied that time in Jack's room, where the white-haired boy opened up to him. But right now, this moment, was more than he ever asked for.

And he wasn't complaining.

The brunette shuddered a bit, deciding to skate around too. Moving would help pump his blood a bit and it could help him warm up a bit. He skated, manuevering to go towards Jack, who hadn't noticed that he had moved. But Hiccup went wrong somewhere, his left skate clashed with his right and ended up falling on his bum.

"Ack!"

"Hiccup!" Jack cried out, skating towards him. "are you oka-"

Hiccup rubbed his backside. "Ugh, I'm fine. Clumsiness strikes again is all," he stood up wobbly, looking up, seeing the expression on Jack's face. "Jack? What's wrong? You look like you saw a ghost."

"Hiccup don't make any sudden movements." Jack said in a hushed voice. "and don't panic." although he looked like he was going to panic himself.

Hiccup raised a brow. "Why? What is-oh," he blinked as his gaze turned down. The small cracks ran a shiver through his spine. "J-Jack..." Wide green emeralds met frightened icy blues. "... I'm scared."

"Don't look down," Jack said, although pretty futile now. "just look at me, right at me. You're not gonna fall in. I won't let you fall in."

Hiccup nodded slowly, trying to maintain his balance. He has gone completely still. "O-okay, I believe you..."

"Okay, now..." he looked around, trying to find something he could work with. But like he noticed earlier, they were the only ones there. Jack proceeded to take off his skates, the cold ice under his feet felt like knives. He moved towards Hiccup and the vulnerable slowly, but halted when new cracks formed. Still, he got close enough. "... okay, take my hand." he reached out to Hiccup as much as he can.

Hiccup swallowed, risking to take one step from each foot. Carefully, his hand tried to take Jack's outstretch one. He kept his eyes on Jack, making him feel like this was going to be okay. Jack nodded, smiling tightly. Hiccup smiled too, and their hands were inches away.

Crack! Splash!

"Hiccuuuuuup!" Jack screeched, pulling his hoodie and sweatshirt off quickly, before diving into the ice.

...

Hiccup came to, finding himself back in the car. He noticed the heater turned up to the max, but he was still shivering. He turned his head, and he saw Jack leaning against the wheel.

"J-Jack...?"

Jack shot right up, wide bloodshot eyes turning to look at Hiccup. "Hiccup!" In utter relief and guilt, he embraced the brunette. "Oh god Hiccup... I'm sorry, I'm so sorry..."

"Jack..." Hiccup rested his head on Jack's shoulder, and he raised his arms to clutch on to him. "it's not your fault..."

When Jack pulled away, Hiccup realized that the older male was shirtless, and he himself was wearing the blue hoodie and probably the sweatshirt too. "What are you talking about? It's completely my fault." he frowned, "I dragged you into skating here."

"Uhmm... You're shirtless?"

"That's what you pick to dwell on?" Jack shook his head, can't help but be amused. "well, survival 101. Body heat helps warm one up faster. And your clothes are drenched, we're going to have to buy you some new outfits before I bring you home. Oh, and some contacts. I couldn't find your glasses, if you have some extra money we could buy a replacement too."

Hiccup blinked, sitting up at that. "Home?" he asked. "aren't we having dinner first?"

"Are you kidding? I'm not going to risk putting you through that again." Jack sighed, leaning back on his seat. "I'll let you decide whether you want to tell your dad about this. I mean, if he knows, this could be the last date. So yeah, no hard feelings whatever you choose..."

Hiccup frowned, leaning against Jack and clutching his arm. "That was a freak accident, Jack. And it's my fault, my bum broke the ice." he nuzzled the older male's shoulder. "and whether or not I tell my father, well really I won't lie to him, I still want to date you again. Now," he pulled away, cupping Jack's face. "let's get some new clothes and have that dinner."

Jack didn't say anything, he just placed his hands on the wheel and started the ignition. He gave Hiccup one look. "Are you sure?" he bit his lip, doubting himself.

"Completely."

~o~

Hiccup didn't expect that Jack arranged their dinner plans in Gobber's Mess Hall. A Viking themed restaurant. He still remembered when he stayed with the man for a while when his father kicked him out. He wasn't family, but pretty close. Back in their college days, when they found out they were both from Viking descent, Stoick and he were inseparable. Of course, they did have a rough start when Gobber flirted with Valka.

Jack shrugged under Hiccup's questioning gaze, "Your father suggested the place," he said.

"Oh. Well, it'll be nice seeing Gobber again,"

They entered the restaurant, and only a handful of people were left. Hiccup looked around for an open table when a familiar burly man approached them. The brunette beamed, "Gobber! It's been a while," he smiled.

"That it has, Hiccup." Gobber gave him a pat on his back, then he turned his attention to the taller male. "And you must be Jackson. Good pick dating a toothpick,"

Jack stared at first, before realizing the joke. "Oh, uh, ha ha, thanks?" he said unsurely. "so, um, I had a reservation prepared?"

"Ah yes, usually my policy goes reservations are void once late but you two are a special case anyway," Gobber place his interchangeable hand on Jack's back. "C'mon then," The man led the two through the inner parts of the restaurant. Jack looked around as they passed by, noting the shields hang up on the walls, pillars with actual torches adding lighting to the room aside from the actual dimmed light bulbs, how the seats for each table weren't for individuals only and there were room for about three persons to occupy. There was even a fireplace, and some customers who just bought caffeine settled on either the carpet or stools.

"It's a nice place," Jack concluded.

Gobber laughed heartily. "Thank you, wouldn't have existed without Stoick's help. I owe him for it," he led the boys to a narrow hallway and opened a lone door.

There was a central torch, trying to assume the role of a forgery. Just like the one hung up at the Haddocks's fireplace, the shields decorating this room had weapons attached to it also. Curtains adorned the wall nicely, and there was a large window portraying the nice snow-covered garden behind the restaurant. Hiccup didn't remember this room when he was last there but Gobber told him it was relatively new. There was a grill behind a long counter. Two high chairs stood on the other side of said counter.

"Tonight, I'm at your service," Gobber tied an apron around himself. "so, how about we start with some yak burgers?"

Gobber was quite the host, kept himself busy and hummed while he cooked, bluetooth earphones playing musical pieces of mozart and such so he wasn't really listening to the boys conversations unless they wanted him to. With the smell of the food wafting through the medium-sized room, it made the boys' mouth water. And the dishes and delicacies served were quite exquisite.

Jack wondered if he could even pay for all this, but Gobber assured him that he'd get a discount. "You're gonna be family once you two tie the knot. I give discounts to family," the man had said, and the boys assumed the blush on both their cheeks wasn't due to the heat from the fire.

"This is really nice, Jack." Hiccup said shyly. "I'm glad you took me here."

Jack smiled at Hiccup, although he was still concerned about what had happened earlier. "I'm glad you're having a good time now," he said. "I mean, this date wasn't exactly top-class. We had to deal with those dicks back at the parking lot, and then that incident at the lake..."

"Jack..." Hiccup clenched his fist. "I'm sorry."

Jack raised his head, blinking. "That was random." he pointed out. "what are you apologizing for?"

"For falling into the ice..." the brunette bit his lip. "For having you save me and going through that ordeal again. If I had been more careful..."

Jack turned on his high chair, facing Hiccup. "Hey, hey, what's with this all of the sudden?" he frowned. "where did this come from? Hiccup, you think I regret saving you? You don't need to apologize for that."

"B-but I can only imagine what you must have felt diving in..." Hiccup's shoulders shook, not able to look at Jack in the eyes. "why did you have to save me? I mean... why face your most dreaded fear for the likes of me? You were just trying to put it behind you, but I only made the trauma worse by adding a new accident to your experience with drowning and I-" The brunette rambled on.

Jack touched the younger boy's shoulders. "Hey, hey, slow down. slow down. You want to know why?" he asked, forcing Hiccup to turn to him with his finger. "you want to know why I'd face my fear head on? It's because losing you was a scarier nightmare."

This made Hiccup's heart swell, but it also made him feel guiltier with the affirmation that Jack really had been scared. That his fear for drowning is still his fear. He looked away again. The older male frowned, wondering how he can make Hiccup forget about the incident entirely. He didn't want the brunette to blame himself for this.

Then he remembered what Stoick and Valka taught him. Well, now's a good time as any.

Jack started whistling, watching Hiccup from the corner of his eyes. He saw the boy flinch a bit, looking at Jack with wide-eyes as he recognized the song. The older boy stood up, going behind Hiccup even if the chair was high Jack could still reach Hiccup easily when he elevated himself, singing directly to his ear. "I'll Swim and sail on savage seas with ne'er a fear of drowning. And gladly ride the waves of life if you will just choose me." He sang, changing the lyrics a bit because Stoick told him to do it the day before. "No scorching sun, nor freezing cold..." Jack reached up to run his fingers down the freckled cheeks. "... will stop..."

"Will stop me on my jour-" Gobber jumped in enthusiastically but cut himself short when Jack fell back in shock and then stared irrately at him for interrupting. "-ney... Sorry," he turned back to his grill.

Jack face-palmed, before getting back to his feet and trying to get the momentum back, "If you will promise me your heart," Jack took Hiccup's hand and pressed it against his chest in anticipation. "And love..." He waited for Hiccup to respond, Valka telling him that if your partner approves, they would sing back. It was an old Viking song Stoick's great ancestors composed, something akin to a court song.

So Jack's heart begun to sink when Hiccup didn't respond, he looked dejected dropping the hand and turned away, considering that maybe he didn't deserve Hiccup and...

"And love me for eternity,"

Jacks eyes shot open, and turned back around, seeing that Hiccup was now standing too, smiling at him shyly.

"My dearest one, my darling dear, your mighty words astound me," Hiccup stepped towards Jack, raising his arm with his hand curled to a fist. Jack did the same eagerly and they crossed it together, moving side to side, circling each other, alternating their arms while they were at it. "But I've no need of mighty deeds when I feel your arms around me!"

Jack laughed merrily and, taking both Hiccup's hands, they begun dancing, doing a little hokey-pokey alternate kicking dance step. Hiccup laughed too. "But I will bring you rings of gold, and even sing you poetry!" The older boy kneeled down, and Hiccup went around him, still holding his hand, laughing as he jumped over Jack's leg before making it back to Jack's front. The older boy takes both Hiccup's hands once more, grinning. "And I will keep you from all harm!" Jack sang loudly with a raised index finger. "If you will stay beside me!"

"I have no use for rings of gold, I care not for your poetry,"

Hiccup laughed as he found himself around Jack's arms, the said boy's arms crossed over his form and untangled themselves till they were just spinning around as they continued dancing, they didn't even notice when Gobber stopped grilling and was dancing along and playing a kind of bagpipe (wherever he was keeping it)

"I only want your hand to hold..."

"...I only want you near me!"

"TO LOVE, TO KISS, TO SWEETLY HOLD FOR THE DANCING AND THE DREAMING, THROUGH ALL LIFE'S SORROWS AND DELIGHTS I'LL KEEP YOUR HEART BESIDE ME. I'LL SWIM AND SAIL ON SAVAGE SEAS NE'ER A FEAR OF DROWNING AND GLADLY RIDE THE WAVES OF LIFE IF YOU WILL JUST CHOOSE ME!"

Jack lifted Hiccup up at that final note, and they both laughed as the older boy brought the younger back down, except his arms were still around those slim waist, so Hiccup's feet didn't touch the floor yet.

"Eeeeeee!" Gobber continued singing. "I'm still goiiiiiiiiing... I'm done!"

Hiccup wrapped his arms around Jack as the white-haired former punk spoke directly to his ear, "Hic," he murmured huskily that the brunette felt an involuntary shudder down his spine. "what does this make us?"

"Idiot,"

Hiccup chuckled once, leaning forward to kiss Jack square on the mouth with no hesitation. The older boy starts before returning the kiss enthusiastically, squeezing the brunette's waist tighter as his heart hammered out of his chest in pure bliss at the intimacy when they finally had to pull back and breath for air, their foreheads brought together and their nose pressed with the other's.

"What do you think?"

Jack grinned widely before leaning in for another kiss.

A/N: Yes YOU ROCK Daggur is coming back. Either the next chapter or the one after that. Please review guys, don't be shy. But remember to go easy on me, this is my first original work. Not to mention that I'm not even American.

I don't know much about foster care either, but I do know it's costly to adopt a child and their are a lot of papers to deal with. So I'm going with that.

Jack and the Cuckoo-clock heart isn't even out here yet so I only know the gist of the story and didn't mention any important scenes to the movie.

I never dated before!