Hey guys! Sorry for the delay! It was partly my fault, not my partners hehe. I've recently been out of town so I hadn't had time to edit/post! Anywho, we both hope you'll enjoy this and we love to hear anything you have to say about it! I apologize for any grammar mistakes! They are bound to be there, I promise!
WE OWN NONE OF THESE CHARACTERS WHICH ARE PROPERTY OF DREAMWORKS AND DISNEY! WE ONLY BORROWING THEM FOR THIS STORY! :)
Enjoy!
Elsa:
"You cannot be serious." I crossed my arms, shooting an intimidating look at none other than what's been a thorn to my side, aka, Jack Frost. We were at a stand-off at my locker, the halls practically deserted.
I was definitely going to be late for fourth period.
"Uh, yeah." He said incredulously, like he couldn't believe I was doubting him.
"I'm not skipping class to go to the pet shelter. We'll go after school- it's just down the street anyway." I pointed out, turning away from him and sorting through my locker for my physics textbook.
There was an overly dramatic sigh and I rolled my eyes. Honestly, what did he expect?
Slamming my locker shut with forced emphasis, I snapped my attention squarely back to him. "We meet outside, 2:30. Not any earlier, not any later. Understood?" I felt like I was reprimanding a child.
He had his icy-blue eyes dangerously narrowed at me. "Fine," he seized.
Playing off a confident and triumphant smile, I raised me head and started to strut down the hall to my science class I'd no doubt be a couple minutes late to.
All thanks to him.
"You'll be late if you don't hurry, Frost." I taunted without even looking at him as I effortlessly turned the corner.
I could hear a faint scoff, but nothing was dealt back to me.
The school day had dragged itself longer than what felt necessary. Getting through my classes with no distractions has never been a problem before, but now…
Well, I don't care to think too much about any of what's happening now. Especially ever since that little confrontation that happened the other night at his track meet. I still have no idea what was going through my head that made me decide going to his meet was a good idea. And meeting his family, or, or however they're related to him- at least that opened my eyes to make me realize that wasn't a good idea at all.
I don't like to think about it that much.
"Elsa!" A loud and familiar voice called for my attention. "Elsa, wait!"
The final bell had rung only a minute ago, precisely, and I was making my way through the halls to the front of the school to meet up with Jack and get our ludicrous project well over with.
I slowed my pace so the person calling could easily catch up.
That person being Anna.
"Hello, Anna." I greeted civilly, keeping my head straight and body poise as I gracefully strode down the hall, students parting a path as I came through.
"Hey," She responded, catching her breath and falling into step with me.
It was our routine, she asking about my plans, me answering with the usual answer.
Hmm. Guess today will be a bit different.
"Headed to the rink?" She asked, as predicted.
Smiling faintly, "Actually," I begun, "There's been a minor change in today's regular schedule." I answered, my voice calm.
Anna halted, mouth agape. I stopped as well, looking at her now for another response. There was none. I quirked a brow, waiting.
Her eyes were wide, like a deer caught in headlights. The urge to roll my eyes was strong but I kept it pressed down. Was it such a strange idea for me to deviate from routine?
"Yes?" I questioned. I quickly glanced at my phone I had in hand for the time.
Three minutes until 2:30.
Focusing my attention back to my teal-eyed sister, I could feel myself grow a bit impatient. As she continued to stand, I took a moment to notice she was bundled up in a brand new green parka. When did you go to the mall? I silently asked myself, trying to recall a moment she informed me of her recent shopping escapades.
"So, what you mean to say, is that you aren't going to the rink today? At all?" Her tone of voice was shocked and in the surprised looked still flickered across her face. I chuckled very faintly. "Of course not, I'll be going to the rink after a short visit to the pet shelter, I said, taking another glance at my phone.
One minute.
"Now, Anna, I really need to get going." I informed, turning sharply on my heels and picking up my pace. I could feel her presence still with me though, and I didn't need to look over to know she decided to follow me.
"Pet shelter?" Anna asked, flabbergasted. "Since when do you go to a pet shelter? I didn't even know you liked animals!" She continued to exclaim.
I twisted my face. Was it really that abnormal for her to believe I was going to a pet shelter?
"Anna, I thought we've discussed this previously." I pointed out as we neared the entrance doors. Flipping my platinum blonde pony-tail over my shoulder, I pressed my fingers against the glass and pushed open the door . Upon exiting, I took a short moment to breathe in the crisp, shrill, fresh air. It was easy to slid into its cold embrace.
Anna, however, hugged her new coat tighter around her frail frame. "No. No, we haven't discussed this. We never discuss anything." She huffed, looking a bit irritated.
I wasn't paying that much attention at the moment, trying to spot Jack. I had a tight schedule to live by.
"I'm sorry, Anna," My apology left automatically as I tried to scout the white-haired menace from the crowd of people who scurried around to cars, bikes, and other various methods of transportation.
2:33. He was late.
Typical.
"Well, are we going to discuss this now, maybe?" Anna wondered, with a hopeful tone, which successfully caught my attention. I stalled my search for Jack, and faced Anna.
Her face was constructed in a look of utter puzzlement. She bit her lip, eyebrows scrounged together, waiting for a complete answer from me.
I sighed, tugging at my sleek and straight, thick pony-tail. "I have a project with the requirements of volunteer work, and a partner," I explained, my structure slouching ever so slightly as I continued to divulge information. "I tried compromising with the teacher, but she just wouldn't have it. I'm sure it'll only be until the new semester begins."
Her confused expression faded into one of understanding, her infectious smile appearing on her faintly freckled face. "Partner?" She questioned with an underlying tone of insinuation. "Who is it?" Her expression then morphed slyly into a knowing smirk.
"That'd be me." A familiar yet annoying voice answered from behind me, and this time I didn't try to stop myself from rolling my eyes. Peering over my shoulder, I found Jack casually approaching both me and my sister. His hands were stuffed into the pockets of his hoodie and subtle grin etched itself onto his pale face.
"I'm Jack, Jack Frost." He introduced, finishing off with a nod of his head.
Anna beamed at the moment, perking up at the sound of his name. "You're Jack?" She leaned in closer to me, "Elsa, you did not tell me Jack happened to be super cute." Her attempt at sharing that privately failed.
"Elsa talks about me?" Jack raised a dark brow, his furtive smirk widening along with his ego.
I scoffed. "No, I've never mentioned you."
Anna played a hearty giggle, "Haha, yeah she actually hasn't, but she has the really strange habit of talking to herself behind closed doors and your name has been brought up more than a few times." She admitted.
"Anna!" I hissed.
"Really, now?" He chuckled, eyeing me.
"Oh, get over yourself." I crossed my arms, dramatically turning my head away.
The two only ignored me.
"Yeah! Hey…wait a minute! You're that guy, the guy who stormed up to her at lunch the other day, aren't you?" She probed.
He mock bowed. "Guilty."
"You know, a lot of people have said a lot of stuff since then." She pointed out.
"Huh, no kidding? Like what?" He continued to pry, raising a smirky brow at me.
"Oh, well for starters, people have been saying you two are-"
"Enough!" I cut in, stomping my foot and throwing my arms down. "That's quite enough." I cleared my throat, inhaling deeply, trying to regain clarity in my head. I turned to an open-mouthed Anna. "You need to get home. I'll be there soon enough to make dinner." I then pivoted to Jack. "We need to get going, now." I ordered.
He flashed another of his never-ending, taunting smirks. "Whatever you say, your majesty."
"BWAFAHAHAHA!" I jumped at the uproar of laughter that sparked right beside me.
"Anna!" I chastised, watching as she bent over, clutching her sides, unable to contain her fit.
"Oh, sorry!" She exclaimed through breaks of giggles. "Oh God- that was perfect…" She breathed, her jovial fit dying down ever so slightly.
I felt a nudge. "At least someone finds it funny." Jack chuckled sparsely.
I only scoffed in response.
Jack:
"I wasn't aware they've changed the requirements on who is allowed a driver's licenses these days.." Elsa sassed as I led her down the student parking lot.
"Oh ha ha," I shot back sarcastically, fishing the keys out of my backpack. "Your wit knows no bounds, Elsa" I deapanned, rolling my eyes at the plush fake rabbit's foot dangling in the key chain.
Toothiana was able to convince Bunnymund to let me borrow his car for the day. He wasn't to spirited about that idea much to my pleasure.
"The pet shelter isn't too far from here. We could've easily walked." Elsa pointed out.
I nodded in agreement, clamping my mouth shut.
We continued to stroll in silence. I was trying my best not to stare at her. We haven't really talked since Monday, the day of my first meet. It went...well, not that I really worried or suprise by the outcome.
No. I was surprised at the fact Elsa actually decided show up. When I informed her about my little track début, I didn't think much of it. I wasn't even really inviting her to come-not that I wouldn't want her there, just that...I expected she wouldn't care. At all.
But she showed up.
Sure. She popped out of nowhere, delaying her precious ice skating time, to only leave basically five minutes later. Honestly, if I didn't go up to talk to her, I'm pretty sure she would've stayed. Or maybe if my Guardians didn't scare off, she might've hung around a bit longer.
I'm never going to hear the end of it after that meet-and-greet.
Also, I'm not exactly sure if I should bring up any of that at all. Ask her why she showed her face in the first place. The day of, I was so shocked to see her I barely had anything to say.
"-car? Jack, are you even listening?" Her melodic voice perked at my ears, and I froze, spinning around to face her.
Her face was red, either with irritation, or the frosty weather. I took in account she didn't have too many layers on to brave the cold, but it seemed she didn't mind too much.
"Huh?" Was the only intelligible response I gave her.
"Your car, where's your car?" She questioned.
Yup. She was definitely irritated.
Wednesday, December 4th, 2:47 pm.
Elsa's still unaware of the entire plan.
"I need to be home by seven so I can start on dinner and still be able to hit the rink for at least an ounce of practice." Elsa nagged in the passenger seat. For, like, the sevententh time now. I gathered that Elsa didn't understand the concept of small talk very well. I sighed.
Finding the car didn't take too long. Getting out of the parking lot with all the traffic was a completely different story.
"Huh." I grunted, not wanting to confirm her repeating request. Little did she know, I-
"Jack. Understand that me agreeing to be your partner requires you respect my conditions—especially those regarding my important schedule." She requited, the annoyance in her tone of voice unwavering and profoundly evident. "Are we clear?"
"Crystal." I yawned, coasting down the busy road as seemingly possible as I could.
"Perfect." She replied back, easing up in her seat. "The pet shelter's on the next left." She indicated, tapping on the window with a perfectly manicured nail.
"Yup." I responded, popping the "p" for emphasis.
We pass the turn.
Elsa's still in her seat, and I smirk slightly imagining her gawking face as she watches the turn pull from view. "You missed the turn." she specified, still gazing out the window.
"Ahuh." I agreed.
From the corner of my eye, I could see a shift in her seat as she swiveled herself to face me. "You can U-turn at the next light." Her words heavy with slight accusation, as if she was suspicious. I took a furtive glance at her.
Her eyes were poised dangerously at me.
She was suspicious.
"I know." That sounded smug, even I knew that. I only grinned more.
We passed the light.
"Okay, Frost, you have three seconds to explain. 1." She held up a hand, counting down.
I rolled my eyes, slowing down as we neared a red light. I took the opportunity to face her completely. "Explain what?"
"You know exactly what. Wipe the idiotic leer off your face and tell me what's going on. Where are we going." She sternly demanded. Her authoritative aura no longer had that weary effect on me as it had before. I can proudly say I'm growing immune to her cold shoulder tactics.
"Calm down, princess. We're going to the pet shelter. Don't get your royal garb in a twist." I teased.
I tapped the window. "We passed up the pet shelter." She reiterated. "Explain or I'm calling the police."
"Whoa, whoa!" I proclaimed. "No need to get all damsel in distress here- we're going to another pet shelter. I was so kind as to inform you earlier we'd be volunteering at a pet shelter. I know a guy."
It was a moment before she said anything back, all I could hear was The Killers sing softly in the background.
"Jack, why didn't you tell-"
"I did tell you, at lunch, if you could recall." I brought up. And yes, to be honest, I actually have heard what people have said about that infamous day. I prefer we not get into that.
She shifted in her seat again, fumbling with her thin black North Face pull over. "How long until we get there?"
"Oh, not to long, ten, maybe twenty minutes." I replied. She visibly relaxed in her seat. "Eh...or 40 minutes, or, you know...3 hours, 2 depending on the traffic?" I almost squeaked.
I'm pretty sure the atmosphere in the car dropped several degrees.
"This was the reason I wanted to leave earlier, princess."
I could literally hear her fuming.
Elsa:
I refused to say anything more than absolutly necessary to that...to that delinquent sitting next me for the rest of the car ride. Jack has honestly been getting on my last nerve all week but this was just...inexcusable. I regret ever spotting him from that tree all those weeks ago.
It was so much easier back then. Him being just some ridiculous boy in a ridiculous blue hoodie used as a second skin practically. I've found myself becoming more agitated and open to burst.
I have also found myself becoming more comfortable at the thought of talking to people.
This was all bad.
"I don't even know where we are." I muttered angrily to myself as I slammed the car door with more force than needed.
"Right outside of Berk." Jack answered, and I became all the more irritated at him responding to me at all.
The pet shelter here wasn't anything to look at. It was a dingy, grey, and rusted establishment that seemed beyond repair. From the looks of it, it looked desolate. I cautiously eyed Jack, who was currently preoccupied in maneuvering himself in the sludge that used to be considered snow.
Berk was known to be a harsher, nastier, and all around dim environment. The weather was said to be unbearable at times, frigidly cold for months, and unyielding storms for the rest with no in-between. It also lacked a decent education system, the only thing keeping it afloat was the outstanding performance in the athletic division. I've never been before.
Although I'll admit I never cared to visit before, and I definitely don't care for a pop in visit now.
"You wanna hurry it up?" Jack prodded, trying to usher me into the skeptical "pet shelter". Yeah right. For all I know he could be leading me to my untimely death.
How appealing.
He held the door open, waiting for me to enter. "Well?"
I crossed my arms, not budging.
Sighing, he hung his head. "Fine." He spat, then he lifted his gaze back to me. "I'm sorry, okay? Look..." He scratched the back of his head. "We can leave and try this again some other time." He offered.
I took a moment to decipher whether the sincere look on his face was authentic or not.
I bit my cheek when I took in his pleading cobalt blue eyes.
Without saying anything, I fixed my sight straight ahead of me, holding my head high with any of dignity I still had left, and entered the shabby shelter. Breathing became a little easier upon noticing the animals comfortably sitting in your typical shelter. Okay, so it was legitimate. Good.
Jack sauntered ahead of me as I scanned the area, noticing cute pups all mingling in a pin.
"Hey Hic." He knocked at the front counter that was currently empty.
"Be right out!" A voice called from back, and I woundered to the desk, standing a foot behind Jack. It took a few minutes, but then someone charged through, slamming themselves against the counter, wheezing, effectively falling to the floor.
"Oh!" I gasped, my hands flying to my face in astonishment.
Flicking my eyes to Jack, i expected to see him equally suprised, but he only chuckled and leaned over the counter, as if this was normal behavior.
Slender hands gripped the counter for support as the guy successfully pulled himself to his feet. "Sorry 'bout that, I'm Hiccup, how can I- Jack?" He stopped what I'm guessing was his go-to line when he noticed Jack at the counter.
"Hiccup." Jack smiled at the boy, who seemed no older than both Jack or myself. He had a mix of shaggy and choppy, chestnut brown hair, with light green eyes and a pale complexion. His physique was clumsy and awkward.
"I want you to meet my friend," he introduced, and I warily eyed him. We weren't friends. "Elsa."
Nevertheless, I smiled a tight-lipped, polite smile.
"Hello El- erm...I..." He blinked as he turned his attention to me. I twisted my face in confusion. "I, um,"
"Hey." Jack harshly whispered to his friend, not so subtly nudging him in the side.
"Oh, sorry, uh, Elsa, hi. Um." He awkwardly stuck out his arm, a gesture for me to shake his hand.
I folded my hands behind my back. "Yes. Hello." I monotonously answered.
With his arm still reaching out, he looked to Jack, who only shrugged. "Um, right." He finally pulled his arm back. "And you're here for..?"
"Volunteering." I quickly responded.
"Something really minimal, and really easy, preferably." Jack added.
I didn't miss the roll of Hiccup's eyes and I delightfully smirked just a twinge at that. It's comforting knowing the only person that finds Jack charming is himself.
"Right, well, let's find you guys something to do then."
Hiccup gave us a "complementary" tour of the place, that consisted of looking at dogs, cats, rabbits, even a snake. He showed us the inventory room, supply closet, and the "kitchen" which was basically a pantry for all the food and treats needed for the animals.
"You could just sign our sheet saying we did something instead of us actually doing something." Jack offered.
"Tempting," Hiccup sarcastically retorted, nearing a large pen, "But no." He finalized. "Now, something easy for you guys to do would be maybe taking some of the dogs out for a walk?" He suggested.
I raised a brow and Hiccup palmed the back of his neck. "I know it's not really customary but they need sunlight and fresh air. Being coupped up in here all day...," he paused, glancing at the cadges. "It wouldn't be fun for anyone."
Jack and I smiled at this. Though animals were never really my thing, I could appreciate the idea that someone could care so much for something no one else did.
Just as he was about to open the pen door, a massive, black horse of at dog rushed to the gate, squatting down with a floppy tongue and a happy demeanor. "Elsa, meet Toothless." Hiccup introduced, scratching behind his ear affectionately, the dog's foot thumping over-excitedly.
"Toothless?" I questioned as I noticed how un-toothless this dog was. This canine had a sharp set of chompers.
"Hiccup's never been good at naming things." Jack admitted.
Hiccup scoffed. "Like you're any better."
Jack rolled his eyes latching onto my arm, "C'mere." He pulled, leading me to another pen.
In this certain pen, a whole litter of pups rambunctiously ran wild, each of them with a unique and individualized coat. As Jack hovered over the pen, the puppies cutely barked and squirmed to reach of him and he instantly plucked on pup from its posse. "This here is Baby Tooth," he announced, showcasing the adorable little runt. It's fluffy fur was a rusty color. "She's a doberman. When I first moved with my Guardians, Thia- the one you met before my meet- she took me here to help her out." He continued to nestle Baby Tooth in his arms, and I almost smiled at the scene.
Almost.
"She only took me here really because they couldn't trust at the apartment alone. Fun fact, Bunnymund still thinks I'm a delinquent who sells drugs to kids while I'm working at the arcade." He cooed at Baby Tooth as he spoke with me.
"So we're going to walk the dogs then?" I wondered, and Jack tore his playful gaze with the pup to glance at me, almost like he forgot I was there in the first place.
"Yeah, lemme just check with Hic which dogs he wants us to take." Carefully putting Baby Tooth back in her pen, he made his way to Hiccup. I kept my attention at the energetic puppies, bouncing and barking at my presence.
In all honesty, I've never dealt with animals of any kind before this. When Anna and I were younger, it seemed customary to beg for a pet of some kind. The older I grew, the less my desire for an animal of my own- Anna was a different story. A couple months ago she tried to sneak a horde of ducklings in the small little pond of our backyard. She lost them in the house and it took days to collect them all.
"Here." Leashes were thrust into my point of view abruptly.
I took them confidently. "Which dog am I walking?" I questioned to Jack who was messing with the various leashes he contained in his own grasp.
Without looking at me, he shrugged. "Well," He began, bending over the pen to attach the clasps of leashes to several pups. "I'll take these four, and you take the other three." He answered, finally looking up as he straitened himself out, placing a hand at his hip as he propped his other arm to rest on the pen.
My eyes gazed over the three leashes I had in hand.
"That a problem, princess?" He teased, and I soured at his little pet-name for me. Why'd he even have one for me in the first place, was using my actual name too difficult?
"No." I calmly answered, handing him my leashes. "'If you could please ready them." I forced the leashes onto him, and he hesitantly took them, snorting.
"I wasn't aware you've never dealt with leashes, you highness." He added as he latched the leashes to the specified clasps for the left over puppies left unleashed. Soon enough, he handed me back the reins. "Okay, I'm gonna open the gate, so be ready." He warned, one hand handling the leashes for his certain pups, and the other hovering over the latch for the gate.
I only gave a curt nod as my okay and the gate swung open, the little puppies scampering out.
"Whoa!" I let out as my three puppies pulled me along, letting me know their full force they were capable of. They tugged me along excitedly and hurriedly and I tried my best to keep up. Good thing I opted for comfortable sneakers today.
I heard Jack yell something to Hiccup, but I wasn't paying that much attention as the rambunctious puppies led me out the door to the gloomy and bitter cold outside.
Down the walk, they splashed, thrashed, spurred, jerked, and pounced all through the mud and sludge, and I groaned as they happened to coat my jeans and sneakers with their mess. I jerked the leashes just a bit, hoping it'd be a sign for them to calm down.
"Okay, let's just calm ourselves." I began. "No need to be all wild," I was getting no where as they happily barked and jumped around aimlessly, effectively pulling me along all the while. "Please calm down?"
"Elsa!" Jack's voice called for me, and for once, I didn't mind.
"Over-" I grunted, trying to gain control, "Here."
I peered over my shoulder just for a second, noticing Jack catching up with me, his puppies bolting around no better than mine. His expression was a jovial one, a smile played on his face, as if he was having fun.
"You look like you're having fun," he snickered as he fell into step along side me, winking.
"Yeah right." I snapped, making a grand show of rolling my eyes and huffing.
"They're just excited, I don't think they like being cooped up in that shack." He pointed out, nudging my arm. "No one likes being cooped up."
I didn't respond, clamming my mouth shut. Was he insinuating something?
"We'll just walk them around the block, yeah?" He continued. I silently agreed.
I struggled to keep up with my lot while Jack was faring slightly better. No other words were exchanged while we were on are required term of voluntary work, and that was the one thing I was grateful for.
There was a downside to the settling silence. It forces you to ponder over things best kept secret.
My sight flickered to Jack who had one hand clutching his reins, and the other stuffed in the pocket of his hoodie. He was whistling a familiar tune, but I didn't waste time trying to decipher it. I noticed how his pale cheeks burned pink due to the continuously dropping temperature. The corner of my mouth turned upwards in amusement when I noticed his navy blue beanie atop his snowy-white colored locks.
It didn't look terrible.
I noticed how his unbelievably bright blue jacket sleeves were pushed up to his elbows, ignoring the stark chill. He had a sort of skip in his step, very subtle, but it was there. He was comfortable. That's what his overall expression gave off. He was comfortable in the silence, in the cold.
He was comfortable next to me.
I blinked repeatedly, sharply pointing my eyes to anywhere else but him. What was this? What was I doing? Get a hold of yourself, Elsa.
Jack:
"So that was a little over an hour, but I'll give you guys a full two considering the drive here is pretty steep." Hiccup admitted. We finished the walk, and I had the volunteer sheet he needed to sign for our hours. The three of us stood at the front desk, Elsa and I patiently waiting for him to finish.
"We'll be back, um," I paused, glancing at Elsa for an answer. With her little fit earlier, maybe she'll finally want to hash out a schedule of some sort.
"Sunday. We can probably make at least 5 hours in the morning." She answered, not talking to me, but Hiccup instead.
I snorted. "5 hours? Ain't that pushing it, princess."
"5 hours, Frost." She crisply and tersely answered, leaving it at that.
"You know, we could really use you guys at the adoption showcase in a couple of weeks." Hiccup suggested, handing the sheet back to me. "Volunteers are pretty much always needed here." He admitted, a bit sheepishly might I add.
"The one during your school's carnival?" I wondered. I vaguely remembered Hiccup mentioning that to me that last time I came to help out.
He nodded. "The very same."
"We'll discuss the matter later. We need to be leaving, now, Jack." Elsa spoke out, already stalking out the door.
I smirked, turning back to Hiccup. "She's a bit OCD about her time."
He chuckled, leaning on the counter. "She seems a bit regal, but, really? Your highness?"
I shrugged, backing away. "She hates it. I love it. Humoring her is quite fun." And with that, I was out the door.
"I do hope you realize it's 7:28. I told Anna I'd have her dinner ready by 7. Do you know how late it'll be by the time I get home?" Elsa nagged as we were coasting down the highway. Always the nagging.
Exhaling, I briefly looked at her. "We'll be back, on about an hour, or an hour and thirty minutes tops. The traffic isn't as terrible this late." I confessed, and she huffed in response. "And we can just stop somewhere on the way and pick up some dinner, how about that?"
She sighed, "No, I-" She was abruptly cut off at the sound of my ringtone.
Damn it. I forgot to call.
"Sorry," I apologized, grabbing my cell from the cup holder it sat at. I pressed the answer button, fumbling with the phone in my right hand and gripping the steering wheel with my left. "What?" I harshly answer, the phone up to my ear.
"Jack! Where have you been? Track practice does not take this long. You're lucky I'm waiting for you to start dinner, but Jack, I can't wait too long. North and Aster are getting restless." That was Thia on the other side of the line, and I sighed, taking a quick glimpse at Elsa as she sat in the passenger seat with a foul look on her face.
"Oh, yeah, I forgot to mention I went to the pet shelter after school. Sorry." I lightly chuckled, but Thia didn't find it as funny.
"Jack Frost, you realize you're supposed to check in with us for whatever you're doing. Hiccup's pet shelter isn't just around the corner! What if something happened to you? We wouldn't have known where you were! Bunnymund is going to have a fit, Jack. Are you just leaving now? Do you just want me to leave you a plate for when you get back? Jack?" If Toothianna could, she'd probably never cease talking. Her mouth can literally go a mile a minute.
It would be close to an hour by the time we got back in time, and at the moment I was reviewing the very few options I had.
"Hey Tooth, I'll just see you at home, I've got to get Elsa home-" My mouth snapped shut. I immediately regretting ever saying anything.
"Elsa's with you! You took Elsa up to the pet shelter? Jack, is that why you didn't want to mention anything to us? Oh, Jack, you can tell me if you were hanging out with Elsa! Did you guys eat yet, you haven't, have you? Oh- idea! Why don't you just bring her down here for dinner? This is so exciting, you're bringing your first friend home, and a girl- oh how cute! Gee, I need to clean up-"
"Whoa, Thia, hold up." I cut her off after her spiel. "No, I'm just gonna take her home."
"Oh nonsense!" She waved it off, disregarding what I said. "Everything will be ready by the time you get here!"
"No, Toothianna, you don't understand" I sighed, feeling a bit restless. "I need just pick up some food on the way for her and her sister. Don't get ahead of yourself here-"
"Yeah, just tell Elsa she can bring her sister along, there's no harm in that!" She excitedly permitted. "This is going to be so much fun-"
"I'M TAKING HER OUT ON A DATE." I blurted real quick.
Silence. Pianful, echoing sielnce.
"You're what," Elsa hissed lowly from her seat. I pointedly ignored her, focusing on the road and on how dead the line was. I was just about to hang up when Tooths voice exploaded though the tiny speaker.
"OH MY GOSH YOU'RE GOING ON A DATE WHY DIDN'T YOU TELL ME! JACK! THIS IS LITERALLY SO CUTE, OH JUST WAIT UNTIL I TELL BUNNYMUND HE IS GOING TO FLIP-"
"Yeah, I'm hanging up now." I stated as Toothiana continued to exclaim and squeal. I dropped my phone in my lap and went calmly back to driving.
The car was still silent, the radio filtering a buzzy song into the air. Both hands were on the steering wheel and I could already feel my cheeks heating up despite the warm air blowing against my face. I am an idiot.
"You better be kidding," came Elsa's voice, finally. I glanced at her from the corner of my eye. Her face was twisted into something unreadable and she was glaring out the windshield, not looking at me.
I groaned, running a hand down my face. "Yeah I know, but I just got you out of dinner at my house." I pointed out. "So...you're welcome." I added as an afterthought.
"You are not taking me out on a date, Frost." She clarified.
Rolling my eyes, I shook my head. "Not with that attitude, I'm not."
I smirked for good measure, and from the corner of my eyes I could see her getting more agitated. My grin only stretched further.
"Besides, I was going to take you out to get food anyway so it might as well be a date. Be thankful, princess. I could have just left you on the side of the road."
I jerked in my seat a bit when I heard a sputter of laughter leave Elsa. Real, genuine, honest laughter was emitting from this usually stone-cold, stoic individual. Goosebumps light up across my skin.
It sounded good.
"That's absurd." She finally voiced. "Besides, I need to get home to fix Anna dinner. Which reminds me I need to text her about the delay," Elsa decided, pulling out her phone from her teal leather designer purse she had stowed at her feet.
"Text her we're picking her up some food on the way." I ordered.
Elsa whipped her head to face me, staring perplexed. "Excuse me?"
I smirked, tightening my grip on the steering wheel. "You're joining me for dinner, your majesty."
She scoffed. "And if I refuse?"
"Who refuses free food, princess?" Case closed.
Anna:
It was nearing 7:30, and really, I shouldn't be worried about my sister being late. She's like, freaky responsible, right? I shouldn't be freaking out. I shouldn't be pacing the floor. But I am. She's never late.
Granted, she is out with Jack, so maybe they're just having a really good time. Well, that's what I'm hoping is happening, because thinking positively is something I'm pretty good at.
I've contemplated whether to call her and interrupt, or just leave it because she could be home any minute. I've paced this room thinking about it for the past half hour. I could just pick up the phone and dial her number, right? Maybe she won't get too mad. Eh, scratch that- I'll end up canceling the call anyway. Maybe I should just text her. But what if she's, like, having a really good time? I don't want to ruin the only interaction with another human being she's ever had since she was basically dippers...still...what if she's hurt...maybe just a quick call?
I pick up the phone, thumb hovering over her name and then groan, throwing it onto the couch. She's just probably having a fantastic time. I can be fine with that. I frowned, staring at the discarded cell. I can't be fine with that.
Going to pick up the phone again, I jumped when it rang.
IT'S ELSA!
"Hello!" I exclaimed to eagerly after smashing the green answer button. I mentally kicked myself and cleared my throat aggressively before trying again. "Hey, Elsa." I said in a more cool demeanor.
"Anna, I apologize for the inconvenience." She started to explain. I rolled my eyes at her professional language. "I will be arriving not on time, as you well know by now. Jack has offered to pick up food and I'll be home with some shortly." She finished.
So Jack offered to grab some grub? I thought. I internally squealed! This is the closest Elsa's been to an actual date, ever. Honestly, this is a big deal. Huge.
Realizing this, I needed to do everything I could possibly do to make the unthinkable happen. "Hey, El, you know what? Why don't you and Jack just stop somewhere and eat, huh? My, uh-" I paused. I need to give her a legitimate reason to skip bringing me food. I bit my lip, wracking my brain for an idea.
"Oh!" I voiced accidentally outloud, instinctively biting my tongue in my own stupidity. "I mean, my friend just invited me for dinner. They're picking me up in a couple of minutes, so yeah. Have fun, Elsa, see you later! Bye!" I hung up the phone before she got another word in.
In that moment, I began dancing in celebration. "Yes!" I squealed. I jumped onto the couch and started to rapidly kick my legs in the air, still squealing.
After I finally calmed down, I pulled my cell back out, typing in a just recently memorized number.
"Hello?" The smooth, could-melt-your-heart-within-seconds voice questioned. My heart fluttered and I could feel my cheeks blush madly.
"Hey Hans!" I excitedly greeted, my smile growing into a full-fledged grin.
"Anna!" He realized. "I thought you were enjoying dinner with your sister."
Sighing, trying to sound more disappointed at that fact then I actually felt, I replied. "Yeah. She just called saying she'd be late home. Something about her volunteer project."
I anticipated the words I wanted to hear. "Oh Anna, I'm sorry. I know how much you wanted quality time with Elsa. Hey, I've got an idea. How about I take you out to dinner, hmm?" He offered.
Exactly what I wanted to hear.
"Oh Hans! You don't have to, I don't want to be any trouble!" I said, all the while grinning. Hans has only took me out a few times so far, but I love every moment of any moment we spend together. He could definitely be the one.
"Nonsense." He stated. "I'll pick you up, ten minutes tops. We'll get whatever you're in the mood for."
"Sandwiches?" I questioned, but I didn't need to. Sandwiches are our favorite food.
"Sandwiches it is!" I giggled at his response and after another reassurance he'd be here in ten minutes, we said good-bye and I dashed upstairs to get out of my Batman pajamas.
Elsa:
I sat astonished, staring at my cell-phone sitting in my hands.
"What she say?" Jack asked as he pulled into a parking lot.
"I-" I didn't know what to say. Anna had hurriedly dismissed me and told me to not worry about getting her dinner. She'd already accepted dinner with a friend? She told me to go eat with Jack? Is she even in her right mind?
"Uh, Elsa?" Jack questioned as he leaned closer, about to bring a hand to wave in front of my face. I turned to him, a scowl growing onto my features. He backed away. "Something wrong?"
I took one long, annoyed, breath, gathering myself together to endure this endless night. "No." I stoically answered.
He quirked a brow, easily confused with me. "Okay." Clearly confused. "Let's just grab some food for you and Anna and get out of here."
"We won't be needing to retrieve anything for Anna. She's made other arrangements, apparently." I admitted, hearing the slight edginess in my otherwise monotone voice.
His confused expression diminished into one of understanding. "Ah. Now I get it. You're a little sore about your sister ditching you."
"She did not ditch me!" I snapped, then blinked, realizing my mistake. "It was your fault I'm late and couldn't make it back in time. She wouldn't have to resort to someone else if I could have made it home in time." I explained back in my calm demeanor.
He snickered. "Yeah, sure, whatever floats your boat, princess." He kicked open his door. "Guess that means it's just you and me, your highness." He teased as he climbed out of the car, keys jingling in hand before being shoved into the pockets of his jacket.
I frowned, before opening my own door and lifting myself out of the seat. It slammed shut, and I turned to look at the establishment, slightly curious to where he brought us for dinner.
My frown deepened further.
"What's the hold up?" Jack yelled across the lot as he was impatiently waiting leaning on the open entrance door with arms crossed.
I closed my eyes and took another deep breath, siting a mantra over and over in my head. It's only for tonight. It's only for tonight. It's only for tonight...
Exhaling finally, I gained enough composure to make my way across the lot, onto the walkway, up to the door presently held open by Jack, and into the eatery- also known as McDonald's.
"We could've gone through the drive-thru." I pointed out, picking at my crisp and hot fries. I had yet to take a bit at my burger, and had a few sips of my mango-pineapple smoothie.
Jack comfortably leaned back into the booth, smirking as he chewed, his only response to my observation. I sighed and looked at my food once again.
I'm not a big fan of fast food; it's unhealthy, a waste of money, and fattening. I can't even remember the last time a set foot inside one.
"We could've," Jack began, taking a quick slurp of his shake before continuing, "Oh well." He gave a comical grin, making a point to slurp his drink even louder than before.
I gave him a steady glare, unrelenting as I popped a small fry into my mouth. My expression didn't waver.
Jack gave a low whistle. "Man, I didn't know you were one of those girls," I quirked a brow, suddenly suspicious.
"What are you implying?" My evident glare becoming all the more threatening.
He shrugs with an aloof exterior as he takes a swift bite of his burger. "Oh, nothing."
This agitates me further, and I lean towards the table, a now permanent scowl etched on my features. "Tell. Me." I demanded in a quiet but malevolent tone.
The roll of his eyes was clear, and I held the urge to kick him right under the table. Honestly, I didn't know what was getting to me- I usually have more restraint than this.
"I know this isn't your ideal five-star, magazine cover, restaurant. You should, however, be grateful I took you out, princess." He teased as he waved a golden fry in my face before cheerfully biting down on it with a loud crunch and a playful smile growing on his face.
I scoffed. "You think I'm mad at you for bringing me here?" I was mad at him, for different reasons, but still.
"You don't seem too delighted, sweetheart." He admitted in a sing-song voice. I bit my tongue, deciding if lashing out at him right now was a good idea or not. The obvious answer was that it's not a good idea, no matter how much I wanted to.
"I-" I hesitated as I examined his expectant expression. He waited for me to continue. "Fast-food isn't my top choice, no."
He gave a knowing smile, before reaching over and stealing a few of my own fries, seeing as he had recently finished his own. "I'll remember that for next time, then."
I let out an unexpected trail of faint giggles before realizing it, and once I did, I clamped my mouth shut. "That won't be necessary." I quickly spat, and I inwardly berated myself when I could feel my cheeks redden.
"Hmm," He jokingly contemplated. "You're right, because it'll be on you next time, won't it?"
"Excuse me?" I furrowed my brows at his statement as he once again continued to pluck fries from my tray.
"I bought you dinner tonight, you buy me dinner next time. Fair trade." He sipped the remains of his large sized chocolate shake. "You're burger's getting cold."
That brought my attention back to the untouched quarter-pounder Jack had graciously ordered for me. I don't know how long I stared at it, but I guess I stared at it for long enough for Jack to elicit a weighted sigh.
"We can stop somewhere else and get you something else if you'd like, Elsa." I flickered my eyes back to him, feeling a little stunned. He seldom referred to me by my actual name, and when he did, it never sounded as sincere and thoughtful as it did just then.
His usual sly, mischievous, and playful expressions and demeanor seemed to be momentarily replaced by ones that seemed devoid of the childish antics- sincere and thoughtful. I almost opened my mouth in awe, before I snapped myself out if it.
"N-no." I stuttered out, trying to get a grip of myself. "You don't need to do that, Jack. The burger is perfectly fine," I forced a slight smile, trying to convince him.
"I'm sure there's a subway down the street if you prefer. Really, Elsa, if you don't want the burger I can get you something else." He sounded fully honest, and for some reason, I couldn't help but feel affected at his sudden and surprising caring attitude. I think I even smiled a little, a real one.
He stood from his seat in the booth, an earnest smile and candid expression playing on his features- I took in a sharp breath, an unfamiliar feeling developing, and I only tried to shake it off. Jack extended a hand. "Let's go, Elsa." He patiently waited for me to hesitantly take his hand as he assisted in pulling me out of my own seat. I didn't reply and only followed him out the door.
The same feeling continued to linger in my chest.
He was right about Subway being just down the street.
"Jack, honestly, you don't need to do this, I'm sure a bowl of cereal at home will be just fine for me." I had begun to resist his offer once we got into the care. He only ignored me.
"Please, Jack." I pleaded, feeling terrible about him wasting money on a meal I'd barely touched and then trying to buy me another one.
Jack chuckled heartily. "It's a five dollar sandwich, princess," He had got back into his habit of calling me those infuriating nick-names. "No harm done, now let's go get you something to chow down on." He urged as he sprang out of his car.
I reluctantly followed, and he, once again, held the door open for me as I entered.
The line was pretty long, and I turned back to Jack, "Seriously, you should just take me home." I motioned at the line, and he just rolled his eyes, shaking his head, and sighed as he took hold of my shoulders and pushed me further into the sandwich-shop.
"You think they'll have any cookies left?" Jack asked me with his trademark smirk. I sighed, seeing we weren't going to get out of this, and shrugged as an answer to his questioned.
I bit my lip, averting my gaze away from Jack and at the array of ingredient selections instead. "Thanks, Jack." I started, at a reserved volume, but loud enough for him to catch it. "Really."
From the corner of my eyes, I took a furtive peek at Jack. A genuine smile was set in place, and he caught my glimpse, and before I had the chance to look away he mouthed, "You're welcome."
We inched up in line, and I decided to stop glancing at Jack, seeing as I could feel my raging blush spread on my cheeks. Honestly I have no idea what has gotten into me, maybe I'm sleep deprived or dehydrated. Maybe stressed. Something along those lines.
After agreeing with myself that it may as well be a combination of all the above, I picked up a familiar voice.
"Oh! And a double chocolate chip cookie! Wait, two, no, three! Yeah, three cookies." The voice was unmistakable, and I widened my eyes at the realization. I aggressively bent forward, almost pressed against the plastic barrier, trying to confirm my suspicions.
I found that I was correct. The person at the cashier that giddily grabbed the recently ordered cookies and what seems a foot-long sized sandwich was none other than Anna.
I paled, snapped back into place in fear she'd spot me. I don't even know why I cared at her finding me here, but for some reason I didn't want her to. "Jack we need to go." I had uncharacteristically grabbed at the front of his hoodie as I hurriedly whispered this to him, still not wanting to be caught.
He stared incredulously at me, utterly confused. "What's going on?"
"Now, Jack." I demanded, and I began tugging him away, but he stood fermented in his spot.
"Elsa, what's wrong?" By now he had his hands wrapped around my wrists, effectively unhooking my own hands from his jacket.
"We need-"
"Elsa?" The sweet and confused sound of my sister's voice rang throughout the shop.
Too late.
I forcibly yanked myself out of Jack's grasp and turned to my approaching sister.
"Anna." I waved slightly, showcasing a polite and small smile.
She broke out in one of her usual big grins and she sped over to me before clumsily halting. "Hey, Elsa, what are you doing here?" She asked, not as excited as she first appeared. I deflated at the fact, but shook it out of my system.
"I was-"
"We're grabbing some dinner." Jack butted in, giving a warm smirk to my younger sister. I held back from shooting him a glare.
"Jack!" She immediately exclaimed with a bound of newfound energy. "What a coincidence we chose the same place, huh?" She giggled at that fact.
I instinctively remembered that Anna had mentioned she was going out to dinner with a friend. I took a scan of the crowded establishment, trying to distinguish a recognizable face. The attempt fell flat when I realized I don't really know anyone.
"Anna," I spoke out, still surveying the seats, "Who are you here with?"
"Oh, uh, come again?" She asked, almost timidly. Why did it sound like she was...hiding something.
I turned me attention back to her, "Your friend, who is it?"
"Next!" A chirpy voice chimed in, speaking directly to me.
"I'll just leave you guys to your dinner, see you later El!" Anna hurriedly dashed away, almost like she was retreating. I rolled my eyes and decided it was a conversation we could very well go over later. I looked at the expectant employee.
"Six inch italian, please." I answered.
Jack and I were presently sitting in his car as I worked at my sandwitch. He had his phone plugged into the car, a song playing from his playist sounded throughout the air at a decent volume. It wasn't a song I recognized.
"Do you think she was purposely trying to hid her friend from me? Do you think she didn't want me to know who it was?" I asked Jack. It was a question I was trying to answer myself.
"Hmm," He was currently chewing his chocolate-chip cookie in thought. He then looked at me and gave an honest shrug, notifying he didn't know either.
I sighed. "Yeah, I don't know either."
Finishing my sandwich, I crunched the paper into a ball and shoved it into the plastic bag that also contained my napkins.
"Thanks, Jack." I thanked for the second time. "For the food and the pet shelter." I added as an afterthought. Replaying the events that occurred today, I decided it wasn't actually as bad as I had thought before. The only downside was I missed a day of practice, but that could be made up with more dedication.
I eyed him as he said nothing, but sported a congenial smile instead. That was enough for me.
He started the car, backing out, and I didn't bother look at the time now. I no longer cared at the moment.
The ride home was comfortable and satisfying, and for once I didn't try to stop my pleased expression.
It was maybe another twenty minutes until he finally pulled up to my house, which was found easily with my precise directions. He reeled as far into the drive way he was able to, the reason being the large closed gate denied him access to proceed any further.
I imagine people would marvel at the estate; Arendelle Manor could easily be mistaken for a castle.
"Whoa." Jack simply breathed, taking in the sight of the extravagant castle-like mansion that stood in front of him.
I sighed. "I know." My mood dampened at the overwhelming fortress. All the windows had been permanently closed off by fine shutters. The gates were grand and majestic, but gave a vibe that said to stay away. The stone and marble on the exterior was exquisite and rich. The rose bushes continued to flourish, along with all the other plants- as if to mistake the regal establishment as inviting. With the moon gleaming down on it like a spotlight, it only put on a show.
All of this brought me back to reality, and I knew I needed to get into my home, out of this car, seclude myself. But more importantly, away from Jack.
"Bye, Jack." I said a short farewell, bounding out of the car, and ignoring anything that fled his own mouth.
I rushed through the front gate, across the courtyard, and through the mahogany double doors, slamming them once inside- all the while having all the restraint from looking back.
Breathing heavy, my back still against the door, I closed my eyes and prevented myself from letting the tears building up from falling. I couldn't cry. What was I even crying over, what the hell is going on with me!?
"Get a hold of yourself, Elsa!" I shouted into the empty fort, my self-scold echoing throughout the halls. I rapidly pulled my phone out, my priority on time washing back over me. It wasn't even nine yet.
With a flash of new found determination, I dropped my school bag and kicked it to the side, marching over to the closest closet and pulling out my expertly and already packed duffel-bag, filled with all the necessities I required for ice skating.
The only thing that I openly understood was skating. I was free to let myself go. This was what I needed to get my mind straight.
It's the only thing I'll ever need.
MANY MANY MAny many thanks for reading our story! I hope all of you enjoyed it! So with that, I'll bid you a farewell for now!
(OH- this is totally off topic but how many of you are watching FIFA WORLD CUP 2014? Sorry if that's totally random but I'm obsessed. Okay now I'm done)