This story finally has a cover image!... only 17k words in XD

As for this chapter, it was an interesting one... for any of my male readers out there, tell me how I did! I imagine it would be rather awkward to get the "girl talk" from your father... but ultimately I have no personal experience with that, being a girl myself ;p

Enjoy!


Entry 38

After that disaster, word has finally reached my father about my feelings toward Astrid. I've been hoping he would be nice about it, since romance is the one thing my dad has ever been good with. And in a way, I was right. And also wrong.

"Hiccup, word is that you've caught feelings for that Hofferson girl," he said during one of our rare shared meals.

I didn't answer, just kind of poked at my food and avoided making eye contact, which might as well have been me screaming "yes! It's true!"

Dad laughed, a sound I haven't heard in what feels like years. "It's completely normal for a boy your age to notice girls. I know I did… So, I just want you to remain aware of that idea, should you feel an attraction to the young women in town and-"

"Okay! I understand!" I said suddenly, really not wanting this conversation to go any further. "Thanks for the advice, but, um-"

"No, Hiccup. This is important, and I need you to hear it. Just listen, for once in your life."

I settled back into the chair, tapping my foot in an attempt to keep my mind occupied.

"As the future chief of Berk, it's important that you find the right woman to lead with. Someone who can handle problems by your side, and take care of your family." I nodded, feigning comprehension while my thoughts practically yelled NO, GODS, PLEASE, NO, STOP. "Astrid is a very capable lady, and is one of the island's most promising warriors. But, frankly, Hiccup, I think she might be too much for you." My foot stopped mid-tap and I looked up at my dad, thinking that was a joke.

He was completely serious.

"What?" Was all I managed to say.

"I mean, it's perfectly ordinary to have a fondness for the girl, just don't get your hopes up. We both know you're not the most… skilled Berkian… and I just think that girl is too tough for you. She's training to be a shield maiden, you know."

I did not know that.

I tapped my fingers on the table for a moment, before faking a yawn and saying I should get to bed. Dad just agreed, seemingly thinking this conversation was successful, and I slipped away.

Did… did my dad just ADMIT that he thinks I'm too weak to handle anything? I mean, I know Astrid is powerful or whatever, but did he really say I wouldn't be able to handle her? 'You're not the most… skilled Berkian'... what in Thor's name does THAT mean?

Gee, thanks Dad, this was just what I needed to boost my confidence. I feel so much better now… Now I know that literally anyone on this island can push me around.

Really though… is he wrong? Just because I'm smaller than them doesn't mean I shouldn't be able to defend myself… but I DO kind of just let things happen… I haven't tried to stand up for myself in years.

Maybe I DO need to be a little tougher. Fight back… there isn't a whole lot I could do physically but if my altercations with Snotlout are any indication, I have a pretty fierce tongue. Maybe I should try and defend myself more… but still probably not with Snotlout…

Until next time…

-H