A/N: Hi everyone, just a quick note to prevent confusion, this story jumps to different periods in time. If the section does not start with an indicator (e.g. 3 years ago), we are looking at the current period, which is the day of the wedding. Enjoy!
Disclaimer: I do not own the story line and characters of Frozen and Rise of the Guardians, they belong to their rightful owners respectively.
Inspired by the song of the same title.
Speak Now
Elsa looked around nervously, playing with her fingers as her blue eyes darted from corner to corner. She kept her eyes down, her platinum blonde hair, usually in a braid, cascaded down her shoulders freely. She decided not to do anything to her hair, hoping her locks could easily cover her face when needed so that she could escape detection, especially by some people who definitely did not want her there. She was on a mission today as she darted between a group of laughing friends, quickly passing drunk relatives who already had one too many flutes of champagne.
The wedding venue was beautiful, of course. As Elsa passed the main doors, she was slightly taken at how the white silk and lace banners decorated the mahogany pillars. The chapel was grand, the rows of wooden seats decorated with pink peonies and white roses. Of course, the union of two powerful families would result in such a grand event, even if it was considered a "small wedding".
She continued walking and found that the chapel had a huge patio and garden, with a majestic glass pavilion where the main reception area, buffet spread and bar was. Joining the sea of people, she quickly blended in, walking towards the buffet being as inconspicuous as possible.
She quickly turned around, purposefully eyeing the eclairs and cupcakes on the table. Picking up a pair of tongs and a small plate, she nervously placed a cupcake in the middle of the plate, grimacing at the thick fondant icing that topped the vanilla sponge. Not that she had anything against a little bit of fondant, it was just the design of the decorative topping that made her stomach churn.
"Jack & Vanessa" it said, with two golden rings right below it.
Elsa held her breath as she walked to the end of the buffet table. She placed the plate down by the corner, uneaten, as she adjusted the strap of her purse hanging from her shoulder. Her heart palpitated in her chest and she felt her vision getting slightly blurry with the chatter and laughter from all round her. Maybe just hiding out in the washroom would be a better option, as she walked as quickly as her heels could let her to the ladies room.
Pushing open the dark doors to the washroom, she gave a sigh of relief upon realising it was empty. She stood before the full length mirror, looking at her reflection with a scowl. Her blonde locks were tousled and her light makeup couldn't conceal her pink cheeks under her freckles as she steadied her breathing. She could still hear her heart thumping in her chest.
She studied herself in the mirror. She was wearing a midnight blue cowl neck satin dress that cinched at her waist, the smooth skirt running down to her calves. Though she must admit that she did look good all dolled up, it couldn't hide the slight redness in her blue eyes from endlessly crying the previous few days. She didn't know how she even managed the courage to come here in the first place.
What the fuck am I doing? I'm not the kind of girl who does this. She thought to herself, placing a hand on her forehead as she turned around. The door of the washroom opened and she gave a barely audible gasp before she quickly dove into a cubicle, locking the door as a bunch of ladies came in laughing and talking about how happy they were with the open bar.
She put the toilet cover down as she gingerly sat down, her purse on her lap as she waited for the time to pass. Her mind couldn't help but use the time to think about the reason she was in this pickle in the first place.
The very groom himself, Jackson Overland Frost.
5 years ago
Jack huffed slightly, looking down at his wristwatch every twenty seconds as he tried not to tap his foot impatiently. He was standing in line at campus cafe, originally hoping he was able to just get a double-shot espresso to-go, but he never expected the long line. They were usually really fast with orders, but it seemed like today was that day where almost everyone on college grounds wanted a cup. Now he was definitely gonna be late for his tutorial class and was psyching himself up to get an earful from Dr Frollo.
Well, he could only blame himself for once again waking up late. He had to rush some assignments into the wee hours of the morning as he'd spent the evening on a date… which ended up being a waste of time. He was trying out this new dating app his friend, Flynn, suggested and it was his first date after matching with Ariel. She was a pretty red-haired girl with a sweet and fiery personality. Unfortunately, she wasn't his type and they both agreed that the feeling was mutual and they would remain friends. He initially wanted to use it to meet new people, but the amount of flirty and borderline sexual messages he was getting from random girls and guys was pretty off putting.
As he took a step forward in the line, he reminded himself to delete the app when he had the chance to. Checking his watch again, his shoulders slumped at the confirmation that he would be late for class. Sad to say, he really needed that coffee. He almost regretted taking up this one-year business masters course at Burgess University, wondering if his four years spent doing his previous finance degree didn't teach him enough about student life.
When he finally reached the counter, he happily ordered his drink. However, as he was about to pay, he realised that he couldn't find his wallet.
Shit. He thought to himself, must've left it on the table as he was scrambling to get out of his apartment this morning. What an amazing start to his day.
He chuckled nervously as the cashier eyed him suspiciously.
"I forgot my wallet. Really sorry about that." Jack said, embarrassment evident in his voice, as the cashier fought the urge to roll her eyes. "Just cancel-"
"It's alright, put it on my tab." He heard the girl behind him say.
Jack turned around and almost thought he'd died from humiliation and went to heaven. The girl behind him was extremely beautiful, with piercing blue eyes and platinum blonde hair in a braid. It didn't help that the morning sunlight was shining into the shop, the ethereal glow making her seem even more angelic. She gave him a smile and stepped forward, turning her face to the cashier.
"One vanilla latte, along with his order." She said, handing her card to the cashier who asked her for her name.
Jack barely heard the interaction and didn't realise how long he was staring, but he managed to snap out of it just as the cashier rang up the order. Clearing his throat, he tried to find his voice. "Hey, uhh… thanks. You didn't have to do that."
The cashier handed her the receipt as she waved her hand at him, both walking towards the pick-up counter. "Don't worry about it, it's just coffee. I get that it's a necessity this early in the morning."
"I really appreciate it, really silly of me to forget my wallet." He scratched his head, giving an awkward laugh. He felt his face burn up and hoped he wasn't blushing and making an even bigger fool of himself than he already did.
Angel girl gave a small chuckle and nodded. "Well, school can be tough. We all have those days,"
The barista placed two takeaway cups on the table as she grabbed them with both hands, checking the order written at the side of the paper cups.
"Here's your double-shot espresso. Have a good day." She beamed at him, handing him his drink, before walking off.
He stood there in a daze for another three seconds, a small smile gracing his lips. He looked down at the cup in his hands and squinted at the messy writing that was barely legible.
Double shot - Elsa
"That's a pretty name." He mumbled to himself before his eyes widened, remembering his current predicament. He rushed out of the cafe, hoping that Dr Frollo won't have his head on a spike.
Thank goodness for Jack, Dr Frollo was in a good mood and let him off with a warning. With that in mind, Jack considered investing in a coffee machine for his apartment so that he'd be able to get his caffeine and skip the lines in the future. The thought of coffee immediately led him to thinking about Angel Elsa and he couldn't keep his mind off her for the rest of the day.
That same evening, he'd somehow made his way back to the cafe, after heading back to his apartment to grab his wallet, of course. He was hoping to see her again, to properly thank her for her possibly life-saving gesture. If he had any say in it, the fool he was that morning was not the kind of impression he wanted to leave on her.
Entering through the door, he looked around, hoping to spot a familiar head of platinum blonde hair. And sure enough, there she was, huddled in a corner, her cream coloured cardigan hanging loosely around her shoulders as she typed away on her laptop.
He took a few steps forward but gulped as he wondered about what to say to get a conversation going. Playing through different scenarios in his head, he frowned as he considered just dropping it and going home.
"Excuse me, are you ordering?" A guy tapped on his shoulders, pointing to the cashier, causing Jack to snap back to reality.
"Oh- uhh… still thinking, go ahead first man." Jack said, gesturing to him to go ahead.
"Thanks dude."
As Jack pretended to look at the menu, a grin broke out on his face as he stepped forward to the counter, ready to order a vanilla latte.
After collecting the drink, he made his way over to the pretty girl in the corner. His hands felt clammy and for a moment he almost regretted disrupting her as she stared at her laptop screen, deep in her readings with her eyebrows furrowed.
"Uh… Hi." Jack cleared his throat, standing before the Angel.
His breath got caught in his throat as her blue eyes looked up at him. Her tense face softening as a small smile graced her lips.
"Hey."
"May I?" Jack motioned to the empty seat beside her.
"Sure," she smiled at him and he felt his insides flip with joy.
He gave her a boyish grin, sliding into the seat. He set the cup down and slid it across the table closer to her. "Just wanted to thank you for this morning. I swear I wasn't trying my luck for a free drink."
Elsa giggled softly, looking at the drink shyly. She could feel the butterflies in her stomach. "If that was the case, it would've been your lucky day then. Thank you for the drink. I'm Elsa."
She stuck out her hand after introducing herself. Jack took her hand, trying to ignore the electricity he felt at the contact, and shook her hand.
"Jackson, but please call me Jack."
Jack fiddled with his dark blue tie as he stood in front of the full length mirror. It was his third time trying but he just couldn't get it right. His frown turned into a scowl as he looked at his reflection. His silver white hair was neatly brushed to the side, he was wearing a nicely ironed white dress shirt and perfectly tapered navy pants. His matching suit blazer hung at the corner with a white rose buttonhole on the lapel. He gave a sigh as he turned around.
"Jackie, are you sure you want to go through with it?" Flynn, his groomsman, asked with concern evident, unlike his usual mischievous demeanor. He was seated in an armchair in the corner.
"Yeah, you don't have to do this, y'know," Hiccup, his best man, said as he went up to the groom and adjusted his tie perfectly. "A wedding is supposed to be a happy occasion, you look like you're at a funeral."
"Well, it is the death of his freedom." Flynn mumbled, loud enough for both of them to hear.
Jack mumbled a quick thanks and walked towards an empty chair, his black dress shoes clicking along with every step he took. He sat down rubbing his face in his hands.
It's true, he did hate every second of this.
"Jack-" Hiccup started but Jack already knew what he was going to say.
"It doesn't matter." Jack said, his scowl never leaving his face.
"But we all know Vanessa is awful." Hiccup retorted and Flynn nodded vigorously, making a face.
"In fact, I'm sure she had something going on with that friend of hers- what's his name? Pitch Blake? Black?" Flynn added and Hiccup looked at Jack with pity.
"She can fuck whoever she wants, I don't care." Jack clenched his fist as Hiccup walked towards him. "This marriage is more of a business union anyways."
Jack's family came from money and was one of the most influential families in town. His dad was a very successful business man who worked hard to bring the family business, Guardian Corporation, to greater heights. The Frosts has always been to Vanessa's family, who had been a crucial and important investor in the business. Additionally, it didn't help that Jack's mother was very close to Vanessa's mom, it was as if they were best friends. After Jack's dad passed away in an accident when he was a teenager, his mum took over as head of the family and business. She then became more obsessed with her son, wanting to groom him to take over her, and of course, believed that he and Vanessa would be the greatest power couple ever. Vanessa has always been ecstatic about being with Jack, but he had always been able to see through her fake persona and always recognised her terrible and obsessive personality. Unfortunately for him, he had to always remain cordial with her for his mum's sake. Furthermore, he loved his mum too much to do anything to damage their family.
"But you're miserable! Marrying her is just absurd! You were so happy just a year ago with Elsa, I don't get why-"
"Don't." Jack said softly, interrupting his best man. He looked at both his friends. "No point bringing up the past, guys. Now that we're here, I honestly don't give a shit anymore."
"Marriage is a life-long commitment, man," Flynn piped up, standing up to stand beside Hiccup. "I agree with Haddock, you'll be unhappy for a long time."
"We've been through this, guys. Even if not me, at least this marriage will make some people happy." Jack gave a small humourless laugh.
Flynn and Hiccup hung their heads as they mourned for their friend's regrettable situation. They were still reeling from the turn of events in the last few months when Jack told them that Elsa, the love of his life, had left and he was set to marry Vanessa in the next few months.
There was a knock on the door and Jack's other best man and cousin, Bunnymund, popped in, panting as if he ran a marathon getting there.
"Hey mates, I have some news, y'all will want to hear this…"
6 months ago
Jack opened the door to his apartment, groaning a little as he straightened his back which got slightly stiff from sitting at his desk all day. The whole place was dark and he turned on the lights after closing the door behind him.
"Elsa, honey?" He said aloud, looking around slightly confused. He took out his phone and was met with an empty notifications page.
Strange, he thought to himself. His girlfriend was usually home by now, and he didn't get any messages from her either.
He walked into their room and there was no sign of her at all. He furrowed his brows, a bad feeling rising as he walked back to the living room. On the coffee table, he caught sight of an envelope. It was a letter addressed to him. He swiftly grabbed the envelope, tearing it open at the speed of light. It was undoubtedly written by Elsa.
Dear Jack,
By the time you read this letter, I'm gone. I'm so sorry, I am a coward and I cannot bring myself to tell you this in person.
I cannot do this any longer. I know you said we can work this out even if your mum disapproves of us, but I cannot live with the guilt of being the strain between you and your family. You know that I've always felt guilty you had to pick up this office job since you got cut-off because you chose to be with me.
We were naive and hopeful, but this isn't a fairytale. I finally took off these rose-coloured glasses, and it's time you did as well.
I loved you, I did. I spoke with your mum and finally we were in agreement on one thing - we aren't meant to be after all. You deserve so much more than what I can give you.
I hope you can respect my decision, please don't try to find me. I wish you all the best, Jack.
Elsa
He read the letter twice, thrice, an uncountable number of times. He couldn't believe it, tears streamed down his face as he wrecked his brain to think of any moment that Elsa showed signs. She hid it all so well, he had no idea. When it had officially sunk in that he just lost the love of his life, he was in shock at how painful it was.
His disappointment eventually became anger as he hunted for an answer. He went back to the very person who objected to their relationship in the first place. His mother.
"I'm so sorry, dear," she said after hearing from her son that the Winters girl had finally left. She tried her best to hide her smile. Caroline Frost sat across from her son, in the study of the Frost mansion. Her brown hair was tied up into a neat updo, her branded clothes showed off her impeccable taste. She was the epitome of what one would think of a rich man's wife, except that she had proven her wits and capabilities in running Guardian Corporation and the Frost household at the same time. She loved her son to death, and characteristically, her passionate love also meant that she could be extremely ruthless to ensure the best for her only child.
"What did you do?" Jack asked through clenched teeth as he placed his hands on the table in front of his mother. She'd always wanted her son to marry Vanessa, and from the start she'd been a total bitch to Elsa.
"Nothing more than a little bit of encouragement. She was going to ruin our business and family. I thought you just wanted a fling, but I didn't expect you to be so foolish to keep her around for the past four years, even being cut-off and working for other people like some common man. I told you that that girl was just after our money."
"No." He narrowed his eyes at her. "No, she wasn't. Tell me what you said to her."
Mrs Frost stood up from her seat, crossing her arms. "I simply offered her money, five million to leave you alone. Seems like she showed her true colours."
His eyes widened and he shook his head. "No… She loved me… You're lying!"
"Oh Jack…" she walked to his side and placed her arms around him. Patting his head, she pulled her close to him, resting his head on her shoulders. He started to sob and for a moment she felt a tinge of guilt. "I know it hurts, my boy. It's okay, at least now, we can finally focus on what's important. She was going to ruin your life and it's good that we managed to get rid of her."
Brokenhearted at the realisation, Jack grew cold and distant. The only girl he ever loved had left him for money and it was not something he could recover from. He no longer bothered to stop his mother from her schemes to get him and Vanessa together. She took his silence and detachment as consent and confirmation. Within a few months, she suggested that Jack and Vanessa get engaged to strengthen some business pact with the union.
He didn't know what came over him but he agreed numbly, because if he wasn't marrying for love, he couldn't be bothered who he was marrying.
Shit. Elsa thought as she realised she took a wrong turn somewhere along the way when trying to get back to the main chapel. She found herself going deeper into the back area, and she saw another lounge where family and close friends of the bride and groom are gathered. Her anxiety grew as she knew that this was the last place she should be and tried her best to keep a distance as she looked for a way out.
She heard screaming and she hid behind a pillar as a dark-haired girl stormed out a room which had the word "bride" hanging on the door. She was wearing a huge white ball gown with big shoulder puffs. "Ugh, Gothel! This is all your fault! The flowers in my bouquet are blush pink and not salmon pink! You ruin everything!"
Elsa gasped softly as the bridezilla stormed around with her bridesmaids chasing after her. Elsa could see the crazy in her violet purple eyes as she shuddered. This was Jack's fiancée?
"And Drizella, you look FAT in the dress, you should've gone on that diet like I told you!" She shouted again, pointing at her bridesmaid. Opening the door to the room, she went in and screamed. "Someone get my mother here!"
Geez. Elsa thought to herself, feeling even more adamant in finding Jack now. This girl was totally wrong for him and even if he never wanted to see her again, she had to talk to him.
The hallway went quiet after that debacle and Elsa let out a breath she was holding as she tip-toed out back. Just as she managed to find her way, a familiar face caught her eye as she quickly turned around again, ducking behind a table.
Caroline Frost. She was seated on a luxurious armchair, using her phone and ever so often looking up at the door to her left. Squinting, Elsa saw the door was the groom's room.
Jack was in there. This was what she was here for.
Else contemplated rushing past Caroline to find the groom. But she decided against it as she would rather not be caught just yet. She slipped off her heels, holding them in her hands. Her eyes never leaving the groom's mother, she waited for someone to approach and distract her before she took her chance to run out the door.
She took a minute to gather her breath as she put her shoes back on. All the guests were starting to make their way to the chapel. Wary that she would be caught as she was obviously not invited to this wedding, she quickly hid behind some curtains, hoping to stay there until she could blend in when more guests arrived.
Finally alone with her thoughts, her emotions overwhelmed her as she thought back about the start of the drama that unfolded a few months back.
7 months ago
Caroline slid an envelope across the table, showing off her well-manicured nails.
"What's this?" Elsa asked politely. Sitting across from her boyfriend's mother, she fidgeted in her seat. She was aware that Caroline Frost was a very powerful woman, she could literally feel her booming presence glowering down on her. Plus, she was not a fan of her either.
"A deal." Caroline stated, eyeing Elsa with contempt.
Elsa reached for the envelope stiffly. Turning it around, she opened the unsealed envelope and her eyes widened at what she pulled out. A cheque made out to her name for five million dollars. Her mouth went dry as she saw the smirk on Caroline's face.
"W-what do you mean by this?" Elsa asked softly, just able to find her voice.
"Isn't it obvious, Elsa?" Caroline put her chin on her hand casually. She rolled her eyes at the blonde before her. "This is yours, if you make the wise choice and leave my son alone."
Her words made Elsa's blood boil. She should've suspected this the moment upon receiving an invitation from Caroline for a meeting without Jack. Even if Caroline was Jack's mother, how dare she think that she could use money to control her?
Elsa stuffed the cheque back into the envelope and pushed it back to Caroline, who's smirk immediately turned into a scowl. Elsa stood up quickly, grabbing her purse. "I'm sorry, Mrs Frost. I can't and won't accept this money. I know you don't like me but I really love your son. I'll take my leave now."
As Elsa turned to leave, Caroline stood up and stopped her.
"Elsa." Caroline started. "Please listen to reason! You are ruining Jack's life! He has a business and great opportunities ahead of him, yet he wants to give it all up for your little storybook romance. It's not going to last. If you really love him, you'd know that he deserves more than this."
Elsa narrowed her eyes at the older woman. "If you really love him, you would accept his wishes and believe that he can make his own choices."
"As his mother, I believe he is making the wrong choice. It is my job to bring him back on the right path." Caroline seethed. "I will not watch my son throw everything away, especially not for a common girl like you."
Elsa's fist clenched. "Then I believe, Mrs Frost, we have nothing else to discuss here."
Elsa opened the door ready to leave and return home to Jack, when Caroline called her again. Elsa's heart thumped loudly as she turned to see Caroline standing before her with a smirk.
"You know, Elsa, we Frosts are very well-connected." She stated, her grin getting wider. "It wouldn't be hard for me to just pick up the phone and ruin your little life."
"You're threatening me?" Elsa scoffed, her blue eyes fighting fiercely with Caroline's brown ones. She took a step closer to her. "I love Jack. I will not leave him. I'm not scared of you."
Caroline chuckled, she placed her finger on Elsa's chin. "Ah yes, Jack will definitely want to protect you. But will he be able to help your whole family, I wonder?"
Caroline turned around, taking a few steps away from Elsa. "I heard you have a sister? Anna, was it? She seems to be doing very well as a paediatric nurse. It would be such a shame if she were to be dropped from her current programme for whatever reason, it wouldn't reflect very well on her."
"Caroline-"
"And your parents," Caroline tsked. "It would be sad if they got fired from their jobs and then having to care for their unemployed daughters, how would they ever pay the mortgage?"
"You leave my family out of this," Elsa's voice quivered. Her defense was breaking, she was becoming afraid at the mention of her family.
"Then I would request the same for you, Elsa." Caroline gave her a look. Checkmate. "It doesn't feel good knowing that your family will go to ruins, does it now?"
Elsa didn't realise that her tears were falling and her body shook. Her knuckles turned white. "Okay… You win."
Caroline smiled and picked up the envelope.
"I'll go. Just leave my family alone." She whispered. She didn't want to do it, but she couldn't risk putting her family in trouble. "Please."
"Of course." Caroline gave a sweet smile. "And I'm not unreasonable. I'll give you until the end of the month to go. You will not speak a word of this to Jack."
"Fine."
"Here." Caroline held out the envelope in front of her. "You'll need this."
Elsa glared at her. Unable to believe that someone as sweet as Jack was raised by this monster. "You think that money can solve everything? And make your problems go away?"
"It has worked all the way up till now." Caroline leered. "I know people like you."
Elsa grabbed the envelope from her hands, tearing it up into half. "I don't want your money." she hissed before throwing the pieces on the floor. With that she stormed out of the room leaving Caroline in shock.
"WHAT? Are you sure?" Hiccup said, eyes wide as Bunny nodded in confirmation.
"Fucking hell, that's crazy," Flynn muttered as he looked over at Jack. His eyes were closed and he pinched his nose bridge, processing the new information.
"How'd you find out about this?" Hiccup asked, his hands on his head.
"I overheard Caroline speaking to Vanessa's mum. Crikey, I forgot her name… Ursula, was it?"
"Yeah, that's the witch. No wonder Vanessa is the devil spawn." Flynn shuddered. "Ursula gives me the heebie-jeebies."
"Can't disagree with that." Bunny placed his hands on his hips as he continued the story. "So I was in the back room waiting for Tatiana to arrive and they were having a private conversation that I was close enough to hear. Ursula said something to aunt Caroline that this wedding was about time and asked how she managed to get Elsa out of the picture. So obviously I was intrigued as it was a fuckin shady topic to discuss so I listened on. Guess what? Aunt Caroline offered Elsa money to leave you, Jack, and Elsa declined. Your mum had you fooled thinking that she took it when she didn't. When Elsa refused, she threatened her that she'll ruin her family and that's why Elsa agreed to leave. She was cornered…"
"Poor girl…" Hiccup sighed as he shook his head, in slight disbelief that Caroline was able to do something so terrible.
"Aye, pretty cruel of her, no wonder she pushed for this wedding so quick… to hide the truth as well." Bunny muttered and glanced over at Jack who was silent the whole time.
"Hey man, what are you going to do?" Flynn asked Jack somberly, placing a hand on his shoulder.
Jack sighed, opening his eyes. He looked extremely tired and beaten down. "Nothing."
He was met with shock from his three groomsmen. "What do you mean you're not going to do anything?" Bunny scoffed. "You can't possibly marry Vanessa now!"
"Yeah, your mum literally threatened your girlfriend into leaving you, how are you not angry?" Flynn threw up his arms. "I'd be fucking pissed, dude!"
"And not to mention the emotional manipulation you went through," Hiccup chipped in as well. To them, it was clear as day that this wedding was a bad idea.
There was a silence as Jack stood up. "Guys, I appreciate your concern and honesty. And I admit I am disappointed and betrayed, as I have been for the past half a fucking year." He fixed the cuffs of his dress shirt and walked towards his blazer, removing it from the hanger. The atmosphere in the room was getting increasingly tense. "Ultimately, Elsa left. Nothing is going to bring Elsa back to me, and I am not- I cannot bring myself to face her again, especially after finding out what my mum has done to her."
"Don't you want to fix this wrong?" Hiccup exclaimed, hoping to help his stubborn friend see the light. Bunny and Flynn looked at Jack expectantly, wanting him to fight as well.
Jack slipped on his blazer. "Look guys, it doesn't matter anymore. No matter how furious I am at my mother, it's not going to undo the hurt Elsa went through, and I'm not ever going to get getting her back. If it's not Elsa, I don't give a fuck… It's not worth it anymore."
The groomsmen looked among each other with crestfallen faces. Jack looked at each of them, and patted Flynn, who was standing nearest to him, on his shoulder.
"I'm getting married today, guys," he said with a sarcastically cheery tone. "The ceremony is gonna start soon, could I have a moment?"
Upon closing the door as his three friends left the room, Jack sat down on the armchair, his face in his hands. Reaching out, he picked up a glass on the side table and swirled the half-filled cup of whiskey before downing it all at one go.
Wiping his mouth on his sleeve, he couldn't stop a tear from rolling down his face, his mind wandered to the girl he loved. He didn't know how she was, if she had forgiven him or still hated him, with the latter being a very high possibility. He held the empty glass to his face and he smiled sorrowfully at the memory of how they first got together. The memory that he remembered with much fondness, yet bittersweet as the guilt built up in him. Now, he will always be left wondering if he should've done it all differently that night four years ago. Perhaps that would've saved them all this heartbreak?
4 years ago
"So how's your sister?" Jack asked as he sat down on the picnic mat beside Elsa. It was a nice clear winter night in Burgess and Jack had asked Elsa to join him that night to celebrate him finishing his business course. She didn't expect her friend to prepare a cute little picnic set-up in a small field, a short drive away from the town of Burgess. Her heart sped up as she looked at his face. She was very sure she came to fancy him somehow in the one year she knew him; he was funny, handsome, cute and everything she'd want in a guy, but he was a close friend of hers and she didn't say anything cause she didn't want to make things weird.
"Anna's great. Still doing her thesis but she really hopes to be able to secure that nursing internship before she ends the semester." She said casually, looking into the basket that Jack prepared.
"That's good to hear," Jack said, making a mental note to see if he could check his contacts later to see if he knew anyone who could help Anna. He never mentioned to her before his family background, but knowing that she was still his friend wholeheartedly was enough for him. "How about you? I've been so busy with my finals that we haven't had much time to catch-up."
Elsa took a flask out of the basket. "Cookies and hot chocolate?"
"Small snacks but I know they're your favorite," he smiled, taking the cups out. Elsa cocked her head to one side, smiling at him.
"That's sweet." She grinned. Going back to his earlier question, she filled him in on the details on how after a few months since graduating from her law degree, she had found a position as a junior associate.
"That awesome, Els!" Jack exclaimed, pulling her in for a side hug. He passed her a cup of hot chocolate, and they both took a moment to appreciate the beautiful starry night sky. He found himself looking at her fondly, his heart racing at the girl before him. Even after knowing her for a year, she was still the same angel like first day he met her.
"So did you have any plans for tonight before I selfishly decided to ask you to join me?" He joked as she giggled, taking a sip from her cup.
"Actually after I accepted your invitation, I had to turn down Hans. He asked me to watch Netflix with him today." She stated matter of factly and Jack almost choked on his drink.
"Wait, wait," Jack stopped her there and then. "How exactly did he ask?"
"Something like watching Netflix and then just chilling," she shrugged. "Does it matter?"
Jack's eyes bulged out of his sockets as he scoffed. "Miss Winters, are you telling me that twenty-two year old you does not know what 'Netflix and Chill' means?" He felt uncomfortable at how Hans was just openly flirting with Elsa like that. She didn't deserve that and she wasn't that kind of girl.
"I know what 'netflix' and 'chill' means individually…" she admitted upon seeing the troubled look Jack had.
"It means he wanted to get into your pants, Elsa." He said, looking straight and not at her as he took another glup of the hot chocolate.
"Oh." She paused for a second. "Then… I guess I'm glad that I'm here with you now,"
"I can't believe how calm you are about this," he grumbled as she looked at him confused. Setting her cup down, she crossed her arms.
"I don't see the big issue here, Jack. It's not like I would've said yes to Hans anyways."
"It's not that, I'm just annoyed at how you let these guys treat you."
"Why does it matter to you?" she challenged him.
"Because I like you-" he stopped himself, panicking a little. Wrecking his brain, he decided to add on his sentence and throw her off before she got suspicious. "-to be treated right. All guys should treat girls they like as if they are princesses."
Else went silent. She didn't know how to react. For a moment she thought Jack was telling her he liked her, and she was pretty dejected when he didn't. He kept quiet, his face in thought as he also set his cup down. Feeling slightly tensed as she got attacked by waves of her stupid emotions, she took a breath and mustered her courage.
"Jack."
"Elsa."
She looked at him and he gave an awkward chuckle after both of them spoke up at the same time.
"Go ahead," he offered and she took a breath and looked at him directly, her face inches from his.
"Do you think you'll treat me like a princess?"
Jack felt his breath get caught in his throat. That was not what he was expecting at all. His brain whirled at being so close to her. Her eyes watching him intently. He couldn't help but look down at her lips. He swallowed thickly, looking back into her eyes with his icy blue ones.
"I'd treat you like a queen."
That was all the confirmation she needed as she grabbed his face and kissed him.
Elsa fiddled her fingers nervously as she slipped into one of the wooden chairs at the back of the chapel right before the organ started playing. She was right at the corner, in the midst of people she didn't recognize so she felt a little more safe.
Her eyes caught sight of him, standing at the front before the grand altar. His three groomsmen standing to his side. Her breath hitched in her throat as she forgot how handsome he looked all dressed up. She didn't tear her eyes off him until people started clapping as Vanessa walked in.
The wedding march, usually carrying a hopeful intonation sounded more like a death march as she watched Vanessa prance down the aisle. Her bridesmaids followed behind. Through the "oohs" and "ahhs" of the crowd, she noticed that Jack seemed totally disinterested and somewhat bored. But her heart still clenched when Vanessa reached the altar and linked her arms with his.
She didn't manage to find Jack before all this, and she grew nervous as the preacher started the ceremony. There was only one more window of opportunity for her to speak up before he was married, and she braced herself for it because there was no turning back either way.
"Should anyone present know of any reason that this couple should not be joined in holy matrimony, speak now or forever hold your peace." Elsa's heart beat rapidly as she heard the preacher say the words. She closed her eyes, her hands clammy as she grabbed on to the hem of her skirt.
As expected, everyone was silent.
It's your last chance… For him, for love.
Hands shaking, Elsa mustered all her courage and stood up from her seat.
"Hi." She said, shocked at how loudly her shy voice rang through the chapel. She heard gasps and was sure everyone was giving her mortified glances. However, her eyes were only locked on one person.
He stared back at her, his blue eyes wide open.
"I'm sorry… this is terribly rude of me and I swear I don't usually crash weddings," she said shakily, her bright blue eyes never once leaving his. "But I believe that the groom is not the type of boy who would marry the wrong girl."
She gave him a small smile and she swore she saw the corner of his mouth twitch.
"You little bitch!" Vanessa shouted, pointing an accusing finger at Elsa, her eyes big and menacing. She turned towards the preacher. "Sir, permission to throw her out-"
"Actually, I also would like to object," Hiccup spoke up, stepping forward as the crowd erupted in another wave of gasps and murmurs.
"Same here," Flynn raised his hand.
"Yeah, me too." Bunnymund gave a smile as he patted Jack on the back.
"Okay," the preacher called out loudly, his voice ringing the room authoritatively as the audience settled down. "What would be the foundation of these objections, apart from the lady at the back saying that the bride is not the right girl from the groom?"
"Well, she's terrible!" Bunnymund blurted out. The crowd went silent as it was probably not a secret at what a brat Vanessa was.
"Anything else?" The preacher asked, looking over to Flynn and Hiccup.
"Well it's the fact that she's hooking up with her friend Pitch Black that's the deal breaker for me," Flynn said and Hiccup shrugged, nodding in agreement.
"What he said."
Vanessa gasped as she looked at Jack, her eyes became terrifyingly dark as she wanted to lunge for Flynn's throat. Jack grabbed her arm, holding her back as she screamed and kicked another fuss.
"Fucking imbeciles!" She screamed, kicking as Jack held onto her arms and shoulders. Elsa continued standing where she was awkwardly, wondering if she could sit back down for a moment. She really wished she had some popcorn as well as the drama continued at the altar.
Both mothers watched in shock as the shitshow of a wedding unfolded itself, too embarrassed to say or do anything else. Caroline was especially embarrassed at Vanessa's sexual exposé, she never knew that the girl she was so fond of was two-timing her son! And to think she was going to let him marry her!
"Stand down, Miss Vanessa," the preacher said loudly, his voice booming through the hall.
Vanessa cleared her throat, combing her hair as the murder in her eyes went away, suddenly replaced by tears. "Please sir! We need to remove these fools at once-"
"Silence young lady." He interrupted her. The whole chapel was quiet and he gave a sigh. "That was a lot to unpack, and usually, I accept union objections on more legal or law related grounds. For this, I will leave it to you, Jackson, whether we should proceed or not."
Jack looked at the preacher, who gave him a small nod and a reassuring smile. He turned around and his eyes found hers once again. He took the steps down the altar and walked towards her, and his mum stood up, stopping him.
"Jack, what are you doing?" She asked worriedly, looking around and trying to stay as calm as possible.
"I need to talk to Elsa," he stated as he brushed her hands off him.
"Did you forget that she hurt you-"
"I know everything, mum," he narrowed his eyes at her and she gasped, her hand over her mouth. "Now if you excuse me."
Elsa watched as he came closer to her and she was stunned when he grabbed her wrist, pulling her out of the chapel.
He led her outside to the veranda, away from prying eyes and ears. He looked at her expectantly as she bit her lips nervously.
"So… wedding crasher, huh?" Jack started, he rested his hands on the wooden railings of the porch.
"I-I'm sorry, Jack," Elsa managed to find her voice, overwhelmed being in his presence once again. "I'm sorry I left, I'm sorry I broke your heart. I should've told you but I was afraid…"
"Elsa, please, don't apologise… I'm the one who's sorry. I know what happened, I-I don't know how you don't hate me for putting you through all that."
"Hate you?" Elsa gave a confused smile. "You didn't know, how could I hate you? Maybe what I can hate you for is getting married so quickly. When I heard you were getting married, I couldn't stop myself from coming back to find you. Maybe it was the lack of closure, I don't know, but all I know is that I needed to see you. Do you really want to marry her?"
"Well, as you can see, the marriage planned by my mum is utter chaos. I'm sorry… I didn't see a point of stopping her if it wasn't for you. I was really ready to get hitched today, as much as I dislike the girl-"
"Then don't," she shook her head, grabbing his hand in hers. "Don't say yes. We can find a way to make it work, we can do anything, we can run away-"
She was interrupted when he pressed his lips onto hers, kissing her passionately, their bottled up feeling crashing down on them as knowing they found a way back to each other.
"I'm just wondering how no one spotted you looking so damn good in that dress," he whispered against her lips as they pulled away.
She laughed and wrapped her arms around his neck, as he wrapped his around her waist and kissed her neck. They both once again felt at ease being in each other's arms. This time, they weren't going to ever let go.
"I have to go back in to wrap up some stuff," he said, face still buried in the crook of her neck. "But wait for me, my love, I'll meet you at the back door of the chapel when I'm done."
He pressed his lips against hers sweetly and she pulled away smiling. "I love you, Jackson Overland Frost."
"And I love you, Elsa Winters."
7 years later
Elsa stood up, grunting as she used the table to pull herself up. She'd just put the chicken into the oven for dinner while waiting for her husband to be back with more groceries.
She gave a loud exhale at how tired she was from just simply bending down as she placed one hand on her back and another on her protruding belly. Currently she was five months pregnant and her stomach was getting huge.
As she wiped down the kitchen table, she heard a small commotion outside. Just before the door opened, she heard laughter and she smiled to herself as Jack came in, a paper bag full of groceries in one arm and their two-year-old in the other.
"Jamie, come on in," he called out behind him as their five-year-old came in, his arms wrapped around another paper bag that was almost as big as himself.
"Aww, sweetie," Elsa cooed as she bent down to kiss Jamie's forehead. Brushing his blonde hair aside, she took the paper bag from his tiny hands. "You are so strong, thank you."
"Welcome, mama!" Jamie gave a toothy smile and hugged her legs.
"Hey honey," Jack leaned in to his wife for a quick kiss as their daughter struggled in his arms, reaching out for her mother. "Okay… somebody's cranky. She fell asleep on the way back home."
"Well, it is her usual nap time," Elsa took Sophie from her husband's hands. Sophie immediately leaned her head on her mother's shoulder, yawning. Elsa patted her head gently and was about to take a step when she realised Jamie was still hugging her legs.
"I'm so sad cause it's obvious our kids love you more," Jack fake-cried as he opened a pack of chips and started munching on them. Elsa gave him a look and he laughed, going up to his wife and giving her a quick kiss on her temple.
"C'mon Jamie, how about some Paw Patrol?" Jack said as he picked up his son, who was cheering in joy.
After putting Sophie down in her crib for her nap, Elsa headed back to prepare for dinner. She passed the living room and couldn't help but smile at her son hugging his teddy bear as he watched TV. She stepped into the kitchen and Jack was there, apron on and opening a jar of tomato sauce.
"You did the chicken, I told you you can wait for me to get back." Jack said, crossing his arms.
"It's alright, I managed to get it in, didn't I?" She smiled, picking up a few empty plates to the sink. Turning on the tap, she felt her husband wrap his arms around her growing tummy as she relaxed into him.
"You can go and rest, babe," Jack said, giving her a kiss on her neck. "I can handle it from here."
Elsa turned around. "Your mum is coming for dinner, she'd kill me if she comes in thinking I made her precious son do everything."
"Well, that's too bad for her."
"She still hates me, Jack. I don't want to make it worse, she probably still thinks of me as the girl who stole her son."
After the whole wedding fiasco, Jack and Elsa decided that they were going to be together and Jack made it very clear to his mum that he did not appreciate the threats made to Elsa's family. To Elsa's surprise, Jack was even ready to leave his whole life as a Frost behind and cut off all contact with his mum. Afraid to lose her only son, Caroline conceded, knowing that she could no longer get away with empty threats. That obviously didn't soothe any hard feelings she had towards Elsa, even after seven years.
"She'll just have to deal with it." Jack said, as he led his wife by the shoulders away from the sink. "Honestly, I do think she's slightly nicer now."
"That's because I'm carrying your child, she's only genuinely cordial when I'm pregnant. At least she loves her grandkids." Elsa sighed, crossing her arms as her husband turned her around to face him. He grabbed her face in his hands and gave her a sweet kiss.
He rested his forehead on hers as he interlaced their fingers. "I love you."
Elsa smiled. "I love you too."
"You don't know how thankful I am every fucking day that you spoke up at that wedding."
"Language, Jack!" Elsa chided, getting a chuckle from her husband. She wrapped her arms around him tightly, taking in his comforting scent.
Suddenly, Jack winced away slightly, his hand on his stomach as his wife watched, her hand over her mouth.
"Was it just me or did our unborn child just kick me in the gut?"