Chapter 36

I'm thankful Elsa and I resolved our issues before leaving the ice castle because we returned to a hectic schedule preparing for the wedding. Elsa was catching up with her meetings and paperwork while I helped Anna with last minute plans. If we were still dealing with the tension of our relationship along with the pressure of getting things done, it might have been the end for us. Luckily, Elsa and I smoothed out the bumps, but we couldn't actually enjoy our fresh start because I hardly saw her. Lately, Elsa was taking her meals in her study and I was still in my own room because I knocked out early exhausted from the duties I would receive each day. Elsa kept apologizing saying things would slow down after the wedding and everything would be back to normal. I had to keep assuring her I didn't mind being alone for awhile. Everyone, especially Elsa, was stressed out. Just a week to go and we can all relax. I wish we could relax now.

I found myself craving a few moments alone with Elsa and I decided to pay her a visit. On the way to her study, a young servant boy rushed past me, tray in hand. I grinned. I didn't recognize the servant which meant he probably didn't know who I was. I raced to catch up with him, "Excuse me!

He turned and slightly slowed his pace, "May I help you?"

"Actually, I'm here to help you!" I lied. I hastily gripped the tray still in his hands, "I was ordered to take this to the Queen."

His eyes narrowed, "I was told it was my responsibility. Who gave you these orders?"

"It was Gerda. She also said just hurry on to your next task while I finish this for you."

"Are you sure?" He began to let go.

"I'm very certain."

"Well... alright then," The servant released the tray to me and I gave a little bow and a small smile before scurrying away. I made it to the door but in the corner of my eye I could see the boy had followed and was watching me from afar. What part of start your next task did he not understand? Trying to look like this was my job and a bit of showing off, I balanced the tray on one hand, pulled the door open, and effortlessly walked in without dropping a thing. And my boss said I wasn't a good waitress, ha! I kicked the door closed and entered the study. Elsa was hunched over her desk scribbling on a piece of paper. She hadn't noticed I walked in.

I raised my voice an octave to sound squeaky, "Your majesty, I've brought your dinner."

Without looking up she replied, "Hm? Yes, just put it down over there."

I placed the tray on the end of the table. Since she didn't know it was me, I tip toed closer to her. I leaned down to her level and placed a kiss on her cheek.

Elsa jerked her head away, "What the hell!" Her death stare shot at me. Her expression soften for a second when she recognized me but Elsa glared again as she shoved me.

"Whoa!" I yelped and stumbled to the floor.

"Don't do that! I really thought you were someone else!" Elsa scolded.

"Well I'm glad you're pissed. Now I know I can trust you."

She groaned turned back to her desk. I propped myself up and stood on my knees.

"Hey, I'm sorry," I apologized. "I didn't mean to make you mad. I just wanted to see you."

"No, it's fine. I have a splitting headache and I'm so close to finishing up these financial issues. Once this is over, I have to set up future meetings for after the wedding." Elsa informed me.

"You're going to kill yourself with all this stress! Take a small break and eat something," I advised.

"But-"

"No buts!" I cut off. I got off the floor and pushed the tray in front of her. She smiled weakly and listened to my demand.

"How exactly did you get this?" Elsa pointed to the tray.

"I asked the kitchen if I could bring your food and they said yes," I lied. She gave me a nice-try look and I sighed, "Okay, I basically tackled the servant bringing it and told them that it was my job, ripped the tray from their hands, and ran away."

"Oh goodness,"

I batted my eyelashes, "I was trying to be romantic."

"Thank you, it was a lovely gesture," Elsa smiled. "But please don't harass my staff anymore."

"I'll try," I promised. I leaned against the desk overlooking the piles of paperwork. It all look like numbers mixed with gibberish. How does she even understand this? I plucked the top paper and glanced over it. The date caught my eye: May 27th.

"Do want a glass?" Elsa asked with a little wave of the wine bottle placed on the tray.

"I'll just have a sip of yours," I responded. "Is it wise for you to drink and do important paperwork at the same time?"

"I only have a little to relax my nerves," she defended before taking a drink. I took it when she offered it to me but my eyes were glued to the page.

"Elsa, when did you date this?"

"All of this is from today."

My eyes widened. How did it slip my mind! Man, I must be stressed out!

"What's wrong?"

"Nothing, I just remembered I can legally drink now," I said and took a sip. "It's my birthday."

"Wait, what? Are you serious!" Elsa gasped. I nodded as the fork in her hand froze solid. She dropped it and focused on me, "Why didn't you tell me?"

"I forgot! If I didn't see the date on this paper, I probably wouldn't have noticed until tomorrow."

"I'm so sorry! I feel awful that we didn't do anything to celebrate."

I waved my hand, "So what? I'm 21. It's not a big deal... well, in my world it is, but that's not the point. I've never made a big fuss about my birthday and with the wedding just a week away, it would seem unreasonable to do anything."

"Are you sure?" Elsa pushed.

"Positive. Look if you want to celebrate, we'll think of something after Anna's big day, okay. You're far too busy now."

Elsa grabbed my hand, "I don't want you to think I forget about you."

"I never even told anyone when my birthday was so I can't expect you to remember. Besides, you have a kingdom to run. I understand," I assured her. I didn't want her to feel guilty about it. I forgot my own birthday so she shouldn't blame herself. Still, seeing how stressed she was gave me an idea...

"How about tomorrow you push aside whatever you don't finish and go outside with me. Poor Olaf has been begging to play so it can be us and maybe even Anna."

She stared at her work, "I don't know. I've already pushed so much back."

"Just for two hours. Please," I pleaded. "Right after lunch we'll go out and then you can spend the rest of the day finishing up. It can be my present."

Elsa sighed, "Okay, okay, I'll do it."

I leaned in and kissed her quick, "Thank you."

"Anything for you."

"Aw, you're so sweet! Okay, I'll leave you alone for the night and let you work. My door is open if you want to crawl into bed."

"Maybe I will. Goodnight, snowflake."

I gently kissed her head, "Night."

The sun beamed down on the five us while we spent the afternoon in the garden. Anna, Elsa, Kristoff, and I were waiting to hear Olaf's next request for a game.

"Let's play again!" Olaf cheered. Kristoff groaned lowly and Anna elbowed him. I don't know how she did it but Anna was able to drag him to our little outing today. I think we all shared his groan internally since all four of were panting from too many games that involve running like tag.

"What about hide and seek? That's fun!" I tried to convince him.

"Oh, yeah! Let's play that!" He agreed.

"You can count," Anna told Kristoff and took Olaf's hand.

"Why do I have to count?" Kristoff complained.

I already started to pull Elsa away with me, "Because you're too big to hide!"

He just rolled his eyes and turned while the rest of us ran off in different directions. Elsa and I hid behind a tall hedge far off. Elsa dropped to the floor leaning on the hedge breathing heavily. I sat by her side studying her carefully. Little beads of sweat covered her forehead and that small piece of hair that stuck out from the left side of her bangs stuck limply to it. I ran my hand over her hair brushing it back.

"Are your okay?" I asked.

"I'm a bit warm but I'm fine," Elsa replied.

"You can go inside if you're tired. You should rest before getting back to work."

"It's a small amount to finish. Don't worry about me."

I pressed my lips tightly together to stop any further protest. The fact was I couldn't stop worrying about Elsa. I noticed the way she slowly became drained over time. Elsa was staggering more than walking and her face revealed the exhaustion she was trying to hide.

Something is wrong. Watch her.

For once, I actually listened to the voice. If she wasn't going to tell me, I would have to keep a careful eye on Elsa. Soft footsteps captured my attention and Kristoff's head peeked around the bush.

"Ha! I finally you guys!" he exclaimed.

"Looks like you win, mountain man," I declared. I helped Elsa off the floor and we followed Kristoff back to Anna and Olaf. I linked arms with her and I felt Elsa use me as support on our way back. I have to end this for today. She needs to rest.

"Elsa, can you make some snow or something? It's really hot," Anna asked waving her hand in front of her face.

"I can try," Elsa complied.

I leaned closer to her ear, "Are you sure that's a good idea. Maybe we should go inside."

Elsa stepped away from, "It's no trouble. I can handle it."

I backed off getting the hint she didn't want me hovering over her. Elsa positioned herself away from us. I watched her hand close then open but nothing appeared. She shared the same look of confusion as everyone and tried again. Nothing happened. Strain crossed Elsa's face while she threw a hand forward. A small flurry of misshapen snowflakes sunk to the floor.

"Elsa, its okay-"

"No," she interrupted. "I can do this. Give me a moment."

Elsa scrunched her face in concentration and put both hands forward. I didn't understand why she was struggling with these simple movements she's done so many times. I also questioned why she determined to use her powers when they clearly weren't working. I wanted to stop Elsa but she gave her fingers a small flick creating tiny snowflakes that evaporated after a second. She stared at her hands, "I don't understand."

Elsa suddenly held her head with a groan and stumbled back a few steps back. Anna, Kristoff, and I all reached out to her.

"I'm... I'm..." Elsa voice trailed off and she collapsed. A cry escaped my lips when her limp body hit the ground. I raced over to her first and fell to my knees beside her. Anna, Kristoff, and Olaf joined my side a second later. I touched Elsa's face but yanked it back instantly. Her usual cold skin had felt like it was on fire.

"Anna, she's burning up!" I cried.

Anna placed a hand on Elsa's forehead and her eyes widened, "We need to get her to the infirmary, now."

"I'll carry her," Kristoff offered. He was too late for I was already struggling to get up with Elsa in my arms. Adrenaline rushed through my veins giving me the strength I needed to carry her.

"Alexis, I can-"

"I'm fine!" I snapped. "Just lead the way!"

Anna nodded and darted to the castle. I tried to keep up with the fast pace and my grip around Elsa tightened. Kristoff was right behind me to make sure I didn't fall. No, I'm not going to drop her. Although my screaming muscles had another thing in mind, I carried her through the halls with a few twist and turns. We finally made it to the infirmary and I rushed to the bed placing Elsa down gently. Anna approached her sister from the other side and touched her face.

"She's still hot to the touch. Alexis, watch her while I get someone to call the royal physician," Anna ordered. I nodded as Anna left the room. I took Elsa's hand watching her unmoving face. Tears threatened to fall.

"Is she going to be okay?" a small voice asked. I looked down to see Olaf at my side. In all the commotion, I had forgotten he was outside with us too.

I forced a smile on my face, "Yes, she'll be okay. Elsa just needs to rest."

Anna entered the room again, "He should be any minute."

"Olaf, can you watch Elsa for a second," I asked. The little snowman nodded and propped himself on the bed next to her. I walked over to Anna keeping my voice at a whisper, "I'm so sorry Anna. This is my fault."

"No, don't say that. No one knew this was going to happen," Anna protested.

"But I convinced her to spend the day outside. If I would have let her work like she wanted, she wouldn't be in here."

"Elsa's going to be fine. You just said that yourself," Kristoff reminded.

I glanced over my shoulder, "If only I believed that..."

The royal physician arrived soon after and ushered everyone, except Anna, out of the room. I impatiently paced in front of the door while Kristoff watched me like I was crazy because I began to mumble to myself.

"I should've kept protesting. I saw the signs. I felt something was wrong. The voice warned me! I'll never be able to protect her..."

"Alexis, sit down," Kristoff ordered, "or you're going to end up hurting yourself."

"I deserve it. It's my fault she's in there," I muttered.

"Stop saying that! You make it seem like you plotted this or something! Look the doctor is checking her out and there's nothing more you can do right now. What you need to do is calm down and be there when she wakes up, okay."

I crossed my arms and dropped to the floor next to the door.

"Thank you," Kristoff said. I didn't respond and sat there taking deep breaths. Elsa's is okay. Listen to Kristoff and relax. Everything is okay. I heard the door click open and Anna stepped out halfway.

"Come in. He's done." she announced. Kristoff rose up first and helped me off the floor. We walked in and Anna returned to the chair next to Elsa.

The physician gave us a nod from the other side of Elsa, "Princess Anna wanted me to share the news with all of you."

"Do you know what happened?" I asked calmly despite the panic churning inside of me.

"Yes. The Queen suffered from a mild heat stroke. I found it strange since it wasn't a particular hot afternoon. I assumed since Queen Elsa has ice powers, the heat affected her more severely. Her body is used to cool temperatures and it couldn't withstand the physical activities under high temperatures. It isn't anything serious. She will be fine. Keep her in a cool environment and I recommend bed rest until she can function normally. If the Queen's temperature rises, then use a wet rag to dab her face."

"Do you know when she'll wake up?" Anna spoke up.

"Give her time to rest. The Queen will wake up when her body is ready."

He took his leave and I went to Anna's side.

"Should I cancel the fitting I have?" Kristoff suggested.

"No, go ahead and get it done. Alexis and I can watch her," Anna assured him. After Kristoff left, I helped Anna fill a bucket with water, then I placed it on a table. Following the doctor instructions, I soaked a rag and wrung it out before patting Elsa's face. My job as nurse didn't last too long because Gerda rushed through the door.

"I just heard about Queen Elsa! Go on girls, I'm here to take care of the Queen."

"We can stay and help," Anna offered.

"I've watched both of you since you were young. It's my responsibility to take of Queen Elsa. What you should do is try to finish any wedding plans. Now that your sister is sick, you'll need to take on any job she had," Gerda instructed.

I saw Anna about to protest again so I pulled her up, "She's right Anna. We shouldn't make Elsa work after she gets better. Let us know if she wakes up."

I rushed out with Anna in tow. I released her once I made it out of the doorway and raced to a window for air. I gripped the window sill squeezing my eyes shut to stop the tears. Kristoff's reassurance kept my emotions at bay for only a while. Now I had to stay away while Elsa was stuck in a room until she got better. This isn't what I wanted. This was suppose to be relaxing and fun. How did it end like this?

"It's okay to let it out," Anna comforted.

"No, I'm tired of crying and feeling sorry. I need to be strong for her." With a quick breath, I stood tall and looked at Anna, "I need work to distract my thoughts. What do we do first?"

I tried to rub my sore back after sitting in an uncomfortable chair for the past hour organizing the food orders with Anna and the kitchen staff. Half of the meals of the menu I couldn't pronounce but we had to appease all the hungry guests. No word was heard about Elsa's condition all day. I didn't know whether to be worried or relieved. All I know is that I wish she would wake up so I could just hear her voice. I've spent a whole day alone without Elsa before, but it's different when she's in the infirmary instead of her study or in a meeting. I passed by her bedroom door and it made me miss her even more. I wish I could say goodnight.

Wait, why couldn't I? It was no harm just to check on her one more time before bed. I turned on my heel and changed my direction to infirmary but skidded to halt because Anna was right in my way.

"Where are you going?" Anna asked sternly.

"I-i-i was just going to say, uh, goodnight to Elsa," I stammered.

Anna beamed, "I guess we had the same idea."

I blew out a sigh of relief. Anna gestured for me to follow before slipping into the shadows. We snuck back to infirmary in case anyone tried to send us back. Anna held me back at the corner as she peeked around it. A voice was heard from down the hall.

"You need some rest my dear. Wait until the morning. I'll be back to check on you later tonight but if you need anything, ring the bell."

The door clicked and the sound of footsteps got closer to us. We flatten our backs against the wall hoping the dark hall would hide us. Gerda turned the corner briskly walking away without noticing us. I pushed Anna to hurry her forward. We ran down the hall to door and Anna poked her head in first after opening it.

"Anna?"

My ears perked up at her voice. (i) She's awake! Anna pushed the door open wide so I could be seen too. A giant smile covered my face once I saw Elsa sitting in her bed with her eyes open. Anna shoved me forward when I didn't move so I hurried to Elsa's side.

"What are you two doing here? I thought you were asleep," Elsa wondered.

"We came to say goodnight but we thought you were still unconscious," I explained.

"I woke up about thirty minutes ago. I was asking for you and Anna but Gerda told me it was late and I should wait until morning,"

"Did she tell you what happened?" Anna asked as she sat on the edge of the bed.

"Gerda just said I fainted from the heat. Is that true?"

Anna nodded, "The royal physician came and said your body overheated because of your powers."

"That explains it. I'm so used to the cold," Elsa agreed.

"Luckily, Alexis saved your life," Anna grinned.

I shook my head, "No, I didn't."

"She's being modest. She had like super strength and basically carried you from the garden to here!"

Elsa her hand over mine, "You did?"

Relief flooded through my body when I felt her skin was cold again. I casted my eyes down, "You wouldn't need saving if I hadn't convinced you to go outside. I'm really sorry, Elsa."

"Don't blame yourself. I had so much fun today. It was unfortunate that ended the way it did. It was my fault that I was being stubborn and wouldn't go inside when you told me."

"I told you," Anna murmured.

I threw my hands up in defense, "I know but I was just scared. Seeing you drop to the floor like that was terrifying. I really thought I lost you in that moment."

"I'm here. You saved me."

"I just carried you. I hardly call that saving. By the way, you're a lot heavier than you look."

Elsa rolled her eyes, "Thank you. That is exactly what every woman wants to hear."

We all started to laugh and Anna hugged Elsa.

"I'm really glad you're okay. We were so worried," Anna told her.

"I'm happy you came to see me. At least I can relax before I have to jump back into helping with the wedding."

"Actually, we took care of everything," Anna admitted. "Alexis helped me finished all the last minute planning. There are a few things we need to look over but basically, it's done. All you need to do is try on your dress one more time and rest until you're completely recovered."

"I'm really proud of you two! You must have been working hard all day," Elsa complimented.

"We couldn't have done it without Anna's leadership. She really took charge just like get sister," I added winking at Anna.

She blushed in embarrassment, "It was nothing."

"Now who's being modest?"

Elsa chuckled, "Either way I'm still impressed. Now you should both go to bed. It's been a long day."

Anna pouted, "But we haven't seen you all day."

"Let's vote. All in favor of staying here?" Anna and I raised our hands. "We win. You have company tonight."

"I'm the Queen. Shouldn't I have final say?" Elsa objected. I leaned in and kissed her.

I broke away, "What do you say now?"

"I guess a few more minutes wouldn't hurt," Elsa decided grinning ear to ear. I kissed her nose making her giggle.

Anna scrunched her nose, "Uh, I'm still here. Please don't tell me you're going to make out in front of me all night."

"Serves you right after you traumatized me in the library," Elsa shot back.

"We thought we were alone! I didn't realize my sister was in there when I started kissing him!"

"That must have been awkward," I broke in.

"It was," they said in unison.

"Got any more interesting stories to share?"

Anna's eyes widened, "Did I ever tell you about the time Elsa tripped and knocked a dignitary into the fountain?"

"Anna!"

"No. Do tell," I urged.

"Okay, so when we were little, this country sent some guy for a meeting and we went out to meet him at the gates. Elsa tripped over the cobblestone and crashed right into him! He flew into the fountain and made this big splash. Remember how hard our parents laughed?"

"They teased me endlessly for weeks," Elsa groaned covering her red face.

"You think that's bad? Try spilling hot soup on a very important guest."

"You didn't!" Anna cried.

"Oh, yeah. It was the owner of my dad's hardware business. So, I was like seven and I begged my mom to let me help serve dinner. Let's just say we spent the evening in the hospital."

The night was filled with crazy stories and endless giggles. As the hours past we finally knocked out. The last thing I remembered was Anna curled up next to Elsa while I sat in a chair holding Elsa's hand. My back was going to regret it but even after the horrible event, the day had a perfect ending.

A/N: Sorry for the random birthday thing. I knew she had to age at some point and I was going to give her mine. So, yes it's my birthday but my party is this weekend so I thought might as well post this chapter today. I thought I be done with this chapter a long time ago but oh well! If you want to see a Elsis birthday celebration later on, let me know. Besides my randomness, let's get to everyone's favorite part: Review responses.

erzatscarlet: I try to find a song for each chapter but usually I never find the right one. When the song came up while I was writing, I was like, YAASS I found it!

AVP5: Thank you! I have so many ideas planned so get ready!

The Reaper13: Well I promised this is the last bad thing for a while. It took me a few reads before I saw "do it" and I was like oh dear. I plan to cause very awkward events leading up to it because I'm evil like that. Since I rather not p the rating for chapter, I might do a one-shot.

Argenti Manu: When I first read the review, I was like WHO YOU IS? Then I realized it was you so yeah the name change worked. I'm glad I exceeded your expectations for a romance/adventure story and you think my story has much potential!

Great: Probably not your name but it was easier to identify than guest. Thank you very much and look out this summer because I'm planning to write more fanfics!

LoveMeNever: I do astound people with my awesomeness haha! Thank you so much! I love that Elsis brings happiness to the world.

dragon matt blue: Thank you! I hope you like this update.

Ends In Elsis: It would kill me to keep them apart.

hannahkaho: Yes, after the wedding we'll be returning to the parents. Then one or two more check up chapters after that.

chloebeauvais: Thank you! They are just adorable.

crazyguy1313: No need to start the hunt for I have updated.

godzillafan1: Sadly, there are a lot more things that have to happen before you learn the truth.

Mort Dans La Nuit: Haha, loved the review! I snuck in a small fluff for you. Lots of fluffs next time.