This chapter was request by sparklehannah. I guess I've mostly been focusing on Jack and Bunny, but no more! This is mostly North and Jack, showing a little father-son bonding, though they aren't at that level yet. Thank you for reading!
North was troubled. He knew he and the other Guardians had messed up with Jack, and while they all seemed to be getting along, they still didn't know that much about him.
They had all shared their stories and past with the boy, but he seemed reluctant to do the same.
North decided a good way to get Jack to open up was by following through on the offer to teach him to read. But so far, Jack had caused it to snow in the library twice, left in a huff, and froze some books. So this time, the windows were locked, Jack's staff was put in a safe (only way Jack would agree to part with it) and it was just him and North.
"What are we going to 'try' to read this time?" Jack asked. North paused, pretending to think for a moment.
"You choose."
Jack's eyes widened in disbelief, but North just waved towards the books, encouraging him to pick something. Jack walked hesitantly and pulled a few books off their shelves before returning them to their rightful place.
A certain book caught his eye though. It was a blue-covered book, with a single illustration below words he couldn't read. The picture looked somewhat like him, though maybe a bit older.
"What about this one? What's the title?" Jack asked. North smiled and nodded.
"It's called 'The Legend known as Jack Frost'. Ironic that that is the one you found," North said as he sat down in a chair, gesturing for Jack to join him.
The book had short stories, myths mostly, about the Winter Spirit. Some were almost accurate, though others were far off. One depicted him as Old Man Winter (an different entity entirely) while another one showed him as the son of a God.
Jack seemed fascinated, actually paying attention to North and he tried to be patient. Eventually, he was able to read a whole chapter by himself.
"This is really awesome!" Jack explained and North hid a small smile. "How long has it been?"
"About eight hours. We have been at this for a long time."
"Wow. Well, thanks. Can we read more of this tomorrow?" Jack asked shyly. North clapped a hand on his shoulder.
"Of course. And since it is about you, perhaps you would like to have it?"
"Really? That would be nice. Thank you. For putting up with me," Jack replied. North frowned before embracing the young boy.
"I did not 'put up' with you. I enjoy your company," North said. Jack smiled before returning the hug.
"Same here. See you in the morning?"
'I wouldn't miss it for anything,' North thought as he nodded. Maybe they wouldn't find everything out right away, but North didn't mind. Jack was worth all the time in the world if it meant gaining his trust.
Next up, a request by Windspear240. Thank all of you for the requests, and if you have any, please let me know! Until next time, Kitkat Out!