A/N: I want to severely apologize for taking so long to put out this chapter. I'm not sure how many of you follow my tumblr, but those that do are aware that I've been facing some IRL issues and I want to thank the people who took the time to send me supportive messages. It really means a lot to me, so really, thank you so much.
I don't have a lot to say about this chapter (I rarely have much to say actually, most of the times I just want to give you guys the chapters and see what you make of them) except that we continue to expand on some pivotal scenes. Also, from here on out, things are going to get progressively more melancholy as we edge closer and closer to the heart of this story. The fluff won't stop completely, but as I've said to some people before, I firmly believe sadness is a natural progression in any relationship. The next chapter will come out a lot sooner hopefully, now that things are (supposedly) quieting down IRL-wise. As always, thank you for your reviews, follows, and favorites. I appreciate all the feedback you guys give me and I hope you enjoy the chapter. Enjoy!
EDIT: Fixed a short passage that I forgot to edit, many apologies.
In the darkness, she could just barely make out the eyes staring back at her, glistening with wetness and fear.
The sound of the rain hitting the school grounds buzzed in her ears. The shuddering, gasping breaths could barely be heard over the droning of the storm.
Her head ached, something warm trickling down her cheek.
How much time had passed?
"Hey, are you—"
Those eyes were frozen in her mind.
"—okay?"
x x x
A sudden roar of wind and rain broke the silence.
The harsh splattering against the window dragged her abruptly out of her dream. She was pulled away from it, fingers twitching—desperately reaching and trying to grasp onto the remnants of images quivering beneath her eyelids.
Anna groaned and stirred under her blankets, raised a hand to rub her eye. The heel of her palm dug into the socket, trying to push away a lingering headache.
Ugh, don't tell me it's coming down hard.
She cracked one eye open and glanced around. The lighting in her dorm room was dim. The lights had been turned and left off, courtesy of Rapunzel. The only thing that stopped the room from being completely dark were the weak rays of sunlight peeking through the curtains.
"You need your rest. Don't get out of bed until you're all better."
That had been after her return from the clinic the day before, also at Rapunzel's behest. By now though, she was rid of most of her sickness. The thick stickiness that had clogged up her throat and lungs had thinned. Her fever had broke and settled the other day and she no longer felt tired at every turn. The heat that had hovered over her skin every second had cooled and she didn't feel nauseous and dizzy when standing up now. The only thing that lingered was a dry scratchiness in her throat—from coughing so much, no doubt—and a dull thudding in her temples.
Anna inhaled, yawned, and stretched her arms over her head, bones popping pleasantly. The sheets rumpled around her and she kicked them off, toes curling. There was an obvious chill in the air, but she didn't care at the moment. She was just glad to be better. She rose into a sitting position and stared out the window.
The glass pane shook as droplets splattered across its surface. Dark, heavy clouds hung overhead and beyond the walls of her dorm room she could hear the wind wailing.
"Great," Anna huffed. "Weather had to be right for once." She brushed aside her bangs and glanced at her arm clock.
6:45. Ugh, I guess it's about time I got up. Class will be starting soon.
Anna grimaced and rose from her bed, stumbling to the dresser. Her hair was a mess as usual and when she ran her hand through it, her fingers entangled in several knots. She hissed in pain as she pulled her hand out. "Ugh, hairbrush. Where?"
Her hand groped along blindly for a moment until she heard a small squeak. Anna started, blinking sleepily down at a blurry green shape. A disapproving pair of brown eyes gazed up at her. The redhead smiled sheepishly.
"Sorry Pascal, didn't mean to grab you." She patted the chameleon on the head and he relaxed. "Have you seen my hairbrush?"
Pascal squeaked and pointed with the tip of his tail. Her hairbrush was hidden underneath a stack of paint tubes, brushes, hairbands, and lipstick. Anna grinned lazily and tickled Pascal under his chin. "Thank you!" she cooed.
He made a pleased noise and curled right back up on his spot next to Rapunzel's picture frame. When Anna pushed aside the mess, she found a post-it note underneath. "Uh, huh?"
Anna frowned and picked up the brush, glancing at the note with foggy curiosity.
"I left you some granola bars in your backpack so you can eat something just before class starts. Keep your energy up Anna! Love, Rapunzel."
Anna smiled faintly, the cold room suddenly warmer. She began the arduous task of brushing back her hair, muttering to herself, "I'll text Punzie that I'm fine before I go."
The quick, short strokes eventually stopped being painful as she dragged the brush through her red locks. She closed her eyes, humming as she walked back to her bed and sat down, the rhythmic sweeps lulling her to a calm and peaceful state. Her breathing slowed and she was distracted from the soreness in her throat. Even the slight cold in her room didn't bother her as she brushed her hair. It almost felt like someone was combing through her tresses.
Elsa.
Anna sighed, head lolling to the left as she recalled the way Elsa had brushed back her bangs and caressed her face, hand pressed to her forehead to check her temperature every now and then. Every cool touch against her heated skin had made her muscles relax, limbs melting into a pile of goo. Then Elsa had curled up against her in the end, her restricting coat gone and her feet free of her heels. Their feet had been bare when they pressed against each other under the blankets.
Illness hadn't been the only reason she'd had difficulty breathing.
After a few more sweeps of her brush, Anna ran a hand slowly through her hair and smiled to herself. Her fingers deftly tied the tresses into her signature braids and she tested the structure with a small tug. Satisfied, Anna yawned again and stumbled back to her dresser. She picked up two lipsticks and eyed them groggily.
"What do you think?" she asked, holding them out to Pascal. "Pink or red? What would impress blonde, blue-eyed, and beautiful?"
The chameleon snapped one eye open and stared at the lipstick tubes. He looked her up and down. Anna smiled shyly and added, "Okay, what would impress the girl who was taking care of me the other day?"
Pascal chirped and butted the pink lipstick with his head. Her smiled widened and she kissed the tip of his nose. "Thank you."
She leaned over the small vanity they had and applied a small bit of cherry-pink lipstick. Smacking her lips lightly, Anna glanced around.
"Clothes, dress," she mumbled to herself. She rubbed one eye as she stumbled to her closet and pulled it open. The door creaked just as her phone rang.
"Wait, what?" Anna jumped and blinked rapidly, shocked out of her relaxed morning stupor. She walked over to her dresser, snatching her phone off the stand and glancing at the caller ID.
For a second, she hoped it was Elsa.
But then her eyes darted over the screen and she groaned.
Incoming call from Kristoff Bjorgman. I guess Rapunzel turned off my ringtone for him to let me sleep. Only she would be allowed to do that.
Anna bit her lip and accepted. She held up her cell to her ear, chewing on the bottom flesh in distraction. I wonder if I should give Elsa a special ringtone.
"—na? Anna!"
Anna jumped, startled out of her thoughts. She pressed the phone closer to her ear, babbling, "Oh hey, sorry Kristoff! I was distracted." She turned back to her closet and began pulling out a long-sleeved shirt and a warm pair of pants. Rapunzel and Elsa wouldn't be happy if she wore anything less than snug. "You kind of caught me at a bad time. I was going to head on down to class."
There was a crackle on the other end before Kristoff's voice rose over the noise. "Sorry, this was the only free time I could get to call you. I wanted to let you know the team and I will be back home really soon."
She could hear the smile in his voice and it made her lips curl into a grin that threatened to split her cheeks. She clutched her shirt and jeans to her chest, fingers fiddling with her clothes in growing excitement. "How soon?" Anna teased.
"Like really soon."
Anna giggled at her brother's remark and she could easily picture the smirk on his face. "Okay, Reindeer King, mind giving me a specific date so I know when to pick you up?"
He laughed and said, "I'll be home by this Sunday, fiestypants."
Anna beamed and hurried over to her backpack, dropping her clothes in the process. She scrambled for her tiny notebook and a pen to mark down the date. "Okay, got it!"
She was about to ask when she could pick him up when a cough traveled up her throat. Anna hacked once and beat her chest roughly, face scrunching up.
"Anna! Hey, you okay? Are you still sick?" Kristoff's calm disposition shifted into overdrive, worry lacing his words.
Anna coughed again and straightened, brushing back her bangs from her eyes. "I'm good, Kristoff. Great," she inhaled slowly, "just a little leftover cough."
"Are you sure? Your voice sounds off." Of course he wasn't convinced.
Anna sighed and swallowed, cringing when her throat muscles ached. She rubbed the hollow of her neck and cleared her throat. "A little hoarse, but seriously Kristoff. I'm fine." Then, before he could protest—she could hear him starting up—she added, "Now, what time do I have to pick you up?"
He grunted and she knew he wasn't happy about being interrupted.
Anna smirked, ignoring the swollen irritation just past her tongue. "C'mon big guy, what time?"
Kristoff sighed and she grinned in triumph at his relent. He hummed on the other line before saying, "Think we'll be arriving around 10:30. That'll be more than enough time for you to eat a full breakfast by the way."
Anna rolled her eyes and stuffed her notebook back into her bag, unclicking and stowing away her pen. "Haha, very funny Kristoff."
A tingle raced down her spine when she recalled the soup and tea Elsa had made for her a few days ago. She could almost taste the rich tomato flavor on her tongue when she swallowed now. Her stomach curled and warmed happily at the memory. Anna bit her lip and walked back to her strewn clothes on the floor, scooping up her jeans and balancing her cell phone on her shoulder.
"For your information," she began, slow and smug, "I have been eating very, very well for my health lately."
"Oh?" Kristoff sounded incredulous. "Last time I checked up on you when you were sick in the fall all Punz told me that you had to eat were old sandwiches and stale crackers. And a donut."
Anna blew a raspberry at him. She tugged off her pajama bottoms and began to pull up her jeans, grumbling, "I'm being serious here! I have been eating well." Her fingers slowed and she fiddled with the button of her jeans. Heat crept up her neck and Anna mumbled, "Elsa's actually been bringing up food for me now and then, when she has the time."
The mental image of Elsa blowing over the thermos cup resurfaced and she shivered. The feel of her cool hand constantly brushing aside her bangs, caressing her forehead, made goosebumps rise on her arms. Elsa's lips briefly brushing against the corner of her mouth, reassuring Anna that she would still be there when she fell asleep. Anna shut her eyes, clutching the waistband of jeans tightly. The warmth of Elsa's body when she woke up just before she had to go.
"I'll see you soon. Get some rest Anna. Take care, please. For me?"
The sheer nearness of Elsa and knowing the blonde had enjoyed their time together just as much as she had had made her heartbeat quicken.
The tender smile Elsa had given her, hand on the doorknob and the other one waving shyly had caused her stomach to flutter. Anna had barely been able to wave back, too stunned, ill, and mesmerized to do so.
When the door clicked shut she had flopped back on her bed and buried her face in the sheets, taking in the lingering scent of Elsa's perfume.
"Oh so I guess it was her food you ate last time I called?" Kristoff's voice broke through her trance.
The redhead jumped. "Huh? What? Oh, yeah!" She unbuttoned her pink pajama shirt and bent down to pick up the fallen long sleeve one. "She made me soup and tea. Good stuff. Healthy. You know, the kind you're always trying to force down my throat when we get together."
Kristoff humphed. "Well excuse me for wanting to see you eat something else besides sugar, sugar, and more sugar."
Anna rolled her eyes. "You know that's an exaggeration," she grunted as she peeled off her shirt and tugged her other one on, all the meanwhile balancing her cell phone. "Hey! Wait a minute."
"Hm?"
The redhead brushed aside her bangs and glared at her phone. "That reminds me, I need to have a little chat with you about something."
"Oh?" Kristoff sounded curious. "Sure, I've got about half an hour before I need to head out. When does your first class start?"
Anna glanced at the alarm clock. 7:01.
"At 7:45 and- hey, wait! No distractions mister!"
"Huh?"
She walked over to her bed and sat down onto it to slip on her shoes, the whole time grumbling, "I have a bone to pick with you. Last time you called I was sick right?"
"Right, about that Anna—"
"Look Kristoff, I know you want what's best for me, but that's no reasons to ask my girlfriend twenty questions out of the blue." Anna gave her shoe a harsh jerk and stepped up, her sneakers practically stomping across the dorm room floor now. "And some of them weren't very nice Kristoff."
"Yeah, Anna, about that. I said I was sor—"
"And yes, I know you said you were sorry to her, but you're still going to apologize in person when you two meet up. Promise me that?" Anna cut in, jamming her textbook into her backpack.
Kristoff sighed.
"I know you rolled your eyes at me," she said, frowning. She grabbed her green jacket from where it was hanging on her headboard and slipped it on. "I'm being serious Anna here, not normal, goofy Anna. Promise me this Kris."
There was a short pause before he chuckled. "Ha, alright, alright. Of course I will. Geez, you sure know how to drive a point into the ground Anna."
The redhead walked over to the corner of her dorm room where she and Rapunzel kept their umbrellas. She snatched the hot pink object out of the basket and grumbled, "I know you're not the best with people Kristoff, but asking her if she's ever been with someone the first time you talk? Seriously?"
Kristoff sighed again. "Yeah, yeah, I know. Bad move on my part. I'm sorry. I just wanted to get a sense of what kind of person she is."
Ugh, overprotective family and friends.
Anna huffed and slung her bag over her shoulder, tucking her umbrella under her arm. "You can do that when you two meet in person. After you apologize."
Kristoff mumbled something under his breath.
Anna paused and frowned. "What was that?"
"Nothing."
She pouted and pushed her phone closer. "Sometimes I wish Sven could go with you on your trips. Then I could just ask him what you're thinking."
Even if Sven was just their family's labrador, Kristoff had always been more honest around the dog than with anyone else. When she'd been a teenager she had often gone to the black lab and talked with him about her problems—sometimes just to tease Kristoff when he was within earshot and other times just because Sven's playful, sweet nature had been so well-suited for certain experiences.
"I just said you really like her."
Again, Kristoff's voice tore her from fond memories.
"Huh?"
She blinked, hand hovering over the doorknob to her room's entrance. Like? Her? Who?
"Wait, what? What are you talking about Kristoff?"
Her brother chuckled and she knew his smirk was back on his face. "Her. Elsa. Your girlfriend. You really like her."
"Huh? What? Of course I do!" Flabbergasted, Anna fumbled with the knob and slipped out, swiping her card key through the lock. "I wouldn't be dating her if I didn't!"
There was rustling on the other line and Anna wondered if he was getting ready to leave as well. He grunted and said, "Not like that I meant."
"Huh? What do you mean?" Anna checked her bag, making sure she had everything before turning to walk down the hallway. "God, sometimes you can be so needlessly cryptic Kristoff."
Kristoff laughed and she smiled in spite of herself.
"I mean, there's something else about her that you like. It's different than it was with—"
She inhaled sharply, hand pausing on the railing of the stairs. The hallway was quiet and cold air bit into her skin, stinging her neck and cheeks. She clutched the steel tightly, foot raised slightly off the ground, ready to move.
But her stomach twisted and curled, nausea creeping up from her stomach. She swallowed, the scratchiness in her throat like pin pricks.
Kristoff had stopped talking and his breathing, coupled with the silence of the hallway, highlighted the pitter-patter of rain hitting the building's roof, windows, and walls.
"Well," he began again and her voice hitched, "it's just different."
Her shoulders sagged and her foot dropped from its raised position. Her lips trembled as she smiled and the steps before her blurred faintly. Anna clutched her hand to her chest, murmuring, "Yeah, it's different." She squeezed the front of her shirt, nostrils inhaling the mild hint of mint on her skin. "It's a really good different."
"Happy to hear that," Kristoff said and she could hear the smile in his voice. There was a small shuffle and he added, "Alright, have to go now Anna. I'll see you Sunday fiestypants."
Anna exhaled and fingered the cuff of her jacket's sleeve. "I can't wait to see you again Kris." She grinned wobbly, fingers flexing against the railing. "A-and I can't wait until you meet Elsa." Her grip tightened on her phone. "Do you think—"
"Anna," Kristoff cut in, voice low and gentle. "Don't worry."
Anna shut her eyes and inhaled, heart thudding and throat sore. She let out a shuddering breath and nodded to herself. "Right."
Kristoff sighed. "So see you soon then?"
Anna grinned and bit her lip. "Sunday big guy."
"Okay," he chuckled. "Now get to class!"
Anna blinked and glanced at her watch.
7:24.
"Damn it Kristoff!"
He laughed and hung up. Anna fumbled with her phone, quickly sending a text message to Rapunzel—"Heading to class, see you later. XOXO, Anna."—before hurrying down the flight of stairs.
x x x
Anna panted as she ran down the step, lungs burning. She gripped her bag tightly as she neared the first floor and jumped the last few steps.
"Woah, woah!" Anna flailed her arms as she slipped and nearly fell, barely catching herself in time. She sighed and straightened, patting down her clothes and hefting her bag higher on her shoulder. "Okay, okay, more slowly this time Anna. Class doesn't start until—" teal eyes glanced at a digital watch.
7:31. Fourteen minutes.
"Fourteen minutes until Communications starts. That's not so bad," Anna huffed to herself. Then she frowned.
Unless Professor Simmons calls on me just as I come in because I'm the only one standing…
"On second thought, maybe that is bad." Anna wheezed for a few seconds before sprinting off with a strangled shout. She fiddled with her umbrella and popped it open as she darted out of the dorm room, sneakers squeaking along the tiled floor.
The rain poured down upon the plastic and the wind immediately beat down on her. Anna clutched her backpack tightly to her as she ran. The Humanities building was on the eastern end and while not completely across the campus for her, was still quite a trek.
She could cut down on time easily if she just ran straight through campus instead of taking her usual route.
But.
Her stomach twisted and her mouth set into a thin line as she approached the central area. The main dorm loomed overhead, its rooftop darker than any cloud in the sky.
Kristoff said he heard from Gaston that he moved dorms. But which?
It would be just her luck to avoid the central dorm and only end up meeting him somewhere else when she'd been trying to avoid him for so long.
I told Oscar I was done with everything already. I told him I was done when we broke up. I told them all. Her stomach twisted further and bile rose up her throat. She gulped and pushed it down. She wasn't going to convince anyone she was getting better if she vomited on campus grounds.
Least of all myself.
She took an off-center path and the main dorm was eventually eclipsed by other buildings and trees. Anna shut her eyes in relief for a second. Her phone rang as she dashed passed the library. She nearly slipped from a puddle in surprise. She dug into her jean pocket and glanced down at the screen as she righted her footing.
From Elsa Arendelle:
Anna jumped, heart leaping in her throat and a smile automatically curling on her lips.
"Where are you? Class is going to start soon. You're okay, right?"
Her fingers moved over the keys as she continued running. Droplets of water splattered onto her head when her umbrella slipped as she typed.
"I'm on my way! I got distracted talking to my brother."
There was a short beep as she approached the Humanities building.
"I'll save you a seat. Did you eat anything before leaving?"
Anna chuckled and reached into one of her backpack's pockets. She pulled at the wrapper of a granola bar with her teeth, tearing it open and spitting the foil out. She bit into it as she typed.
"I got something quick. I'll be there in a bit."
Another bing and she grinned at the response.
"Alright. I can't wait to see you."
Anna slid to a stop in front of the building's double doors. Her umbrella wobbled precariously as she balanced her snack and backpack. A breeze blew over her as she reached toward the doorknob and tipped her umbrella right out of her hand. It clattered to the floor, snagging on the doorway.
A shower of cold droplets fell on her shoulders, dampening her green jacket.
"Crap, crap, crap!" Anna dumped the wrapper in the trash bin beside the door and practically dove for her umbrella. The wind barreled it over and she nearly fell on her face when snatching it up. She pushed open the doors and sighed in relief when the building's warm temperature settled over her chilled flesh.
Anna closed her umbrella and shook it a bit, pouting when several beads of water ended up on her shoes. She checked herself over, biting her lip.
"Okay, not too wet. No big deal." She smiled and brushed her jacket sleeve over her hair, doing her best to dry it. Anna ran her thumb over her lips and her face softened when she noticed her lipstick hadn't smeared.
I hope Elsa likes it.
She glanced at her wristwatch and yelped when she saw the time.
"7:43?! I hope no one took my spot!"
Anna tucked her umbrella under her arm and shot down the hallway, sneakers squeaking noisily. She panted as she rounded a corner and saw her classroom down the hallway. Finally! She squeezed passed a few other late students, muttering an apology as she scanned the room, looking for an empty seat. To her dismay, all her usual seats in the middle row had been taken. Oh, I really, really, hope that—
A pale hand shot up and waved to her, gesturing her forward. Anna couldn't help the grin spreading across her cheeks. She squealed and ran down the back row, nearly tripping over her own feet and bumping into Aurora's chair. She flashed a sheepish, apologetic look at the sleepy glare sent her way.
"Sorry," she mouthed and hurried down.
Elsa smiled up at her, all perfect white teeth and shining blue eyes. "Hi," the blonde said. "Have a seat," she gestured to the chair on her right.
Anna's chest heaved as she stopped in front of her girlfriend. "Hey you," the redhead teased. "Good morning, gorgeous, how are you this fine day?" Anna sang, swiveling into the empty seat happily.
Elsa rolled her eyes, amused. "It's not exactly a fine day Anna. It's pouring outside." She reached over and brushed her hand through the redhead's bangs, frowning. "You brought your umbrella right?"
Anna grinned and held up the wet plastic object for emphasis. "Yeah. I kind of ran here like an idiot and I dropped my umbrella so I got a little wet in the process."
Elsa hummed, running her fingers lightly through strawberry-blonde locks. She pushed aside Anna's fringe and bit her lip. "I can tell. Your hair's wet." Blue eyes scanned down the rest of Anna's form. "Looks like that's all though. Your clothes don't look damp." She paused and her brow furrowed. "Except for your jacket."
Anna giggled, reaching up and pulling Elsa's hand away. "Don't worry, I'm taking good care of myself. Besides, I'm practically one hundred percent better now!"
At that moment, a cough bubbled up her chest and passed her lips. She slapped a hand over her mouth and blushed, eyes flicking to meet Elsa's gaze. The blonde raised an eyebrow and smirked. Anna coughed again and cleared her throat, laughing nervously. "I'm mostly better?"
Elsa rolled her eyes, her smirk melting into an exasperated smile. "I'll have to make do with that." Then she blinked, taking a closer look at Anna. Her smirk shifted into an interested grin. "By the way, is that lipstick on you?"
Anna blushed shyly and tapped her knuckles together. "Yeah," she bit her lip, "uh, does it look bad?"
Elsa's expression softened. "No, it's cute." She tilted her head to the side, studying her. "It's a lovely shade."
Score! Anna looked down at her desk, biting her lip to keep from grinning. Her eyes flicked back to Elsa and when she saw the tender look on her face again, she couldn't help the thousand-watt smile that stretched over her cheeks.
They stared at each other for several moments before breaking eye contact, faces red.
Elsa glanced quickly to the front and Anna followed her line of sight. Their professor hadn't arrived yet. I wonder what's taking him so long. The redhead glanced up at the classroom clock. Class should have started by now.
"Anna."
Elsa's hushed voice snapped her attention back to the blonde.
"Hm?"
Her girlfriend leaned forward slightly. "How is your voice doing? You kept coughing even when your fever broke." Elsa's brow knitted and Anna fought back the urge to caress her worried face. "You sound hoarse."
Anna rubbed her throat as if to soothe the dry scratchiness. "A bit," she admitted, reaching down to her backpack and pulling out her textbook and notebook. She unclicked a pen and flashed Elsa a reassuring smile when she noticed the frown deepen on her face. "Don't pout Elsa, it's unbecoming of a stylish young woman such as yourself." Then she grinned and squinted her eyes playfully. "Actually, do pout. It looks cute on you."
She giggled at the red flush that overtook the blonde's pale features. Elsa humphed and turned to her laptop, flicking it on. As the screen lit up, Anna took a moment to roam her eyes over the other woman's face. Dressed in a simple violet coat and scarf, Elsa looked as proper as ever. However, this time she had left her hair up in a bun instead of her usual braid. To top it off, a pair of pearl drop earrings hung from her ears. A wave of nostalgia hit her as she watched the smooth gemstones swing back and forth.
She was wearing earrings that—
The door banged open, making both women jump in their seats. The classroom turned around as one to see their professor stumbling in. The portly man stumbled with several papers tucked under his arm, huffing and puffing. Most of the students turned away, disinterested now that they had seen who it was.
Anna pursed her lips, slouching in her seat. "And here I was worried about getting on time when our professor was running late too. I didn't have to rush all this way."
Elsa chuckled beside her, fingers tapping away at keys already. "Better safe than sorry, dear. Besides, punctuality is a good work ethic to have."
The redhead stuck out her tongue at her girlfriend, earning a surprised snort of laughter. "Of course you'd say something like that."
Still, despite her misfortune, Anna found herself grinning. I might have had to rush here, but I ended up sitting next to Elsa. So I guess everything evens out.
Their professor finally made it up to the podium, fumbling with his papers. He dipped his hat and called out to the back, "Thank you for your assistance Professor Westerguard, you may go."
A chill shot down Anna's spine and she stiffened in her seat. Elsa glanced at her worriedly from the corner of her eye, fingers pausing over her keypad.
"Anna?" she mouthed.
Anna ignored the concern and turned slowly in her chair. She felt a gaze boring into her back and when she looked at the door, her stomach twisted.
Oscar stood beside it, his eyes fixated on her. When she met his stare, he glanced over at their professor. "I was glad to be of help, Professor Simmons. If you'll excuse me then, have a good day."
He dipped his head and turned to go, but not before he gave Anna one final look.
The redhead clenched her fists together tightly and deliberately turned to stare at the projector screen. Her neck muscles twitched as the door closed gently and the hush that had fallen over the students broke.
"Now, now, settle down everyone. I apologize for being late, but—"
His voice trailed off in Anna's mind. She bit her lip, clutching her pen in a firm grasp.
Come on, it's nothing to get upset over. He left and didn't even say anything. Well, not like he could without drawing attention from everyone, but still. He left just like that.
Her knuckles paled and her nails dug harshly into her skin.
Not without looking at me of course. What does he expect from me? I'm just your average schmuck. I'm completely ordina—
A hand curled around hers, slender fingers gently pulling her pen away.
Anna twitched and glanced sideways. Elsa blinked and whispered, almost mouthing the words, "Are you okay?"
A shock ran through her veins.
"—are you okay?"
Anna's lips twitched into a small smile and she shifted her hand to rub circles on Elsa's wrist. Quietly, she said, "I'm fine."
Elsa relaxed and nodded, detracting her hand to type away at her keyboard again. Anna rubbed the pads of her first three fingers together, trying to preserve the warmth in them.
They settled into a comfortable silence, keys tapping and pen scribbling. The clock ticked away as the professor explained the day's lesson for an hour before moving on to list major—"And minor!"—points of their upcoming exam. There was a collective groan amongst the students.
"Now don't give me that! You're all capable adults and it's to be expected considering you will be going on winter break shortly thereafter!"
Anna snorted when a student rose in his chair, waving his arm rapidly and shouting, "Can't you give us the exam after the break?!"
Elsa rolled her eyes and Anna bit her lip to stop herself from bursting into a fit of giggles.
"Blah, blah, blah," the redhead imitated in a low voice.
Elsa quirked an eyebrow at her, but the disapproving look failed to have its effect due to the smile curling on her lips.
"Shh," she cooed, eyes narrowed.
"Now see here Mr. Pride! I firmly believe that having your exam before going on vacation will prevent any procras—"
The professor's voice was cut off by a loud rattling. Anna jerked her head up to look at the classroom windows hidden behind the blinds. The glass shook for a few more seconds before stilling. The wind shrieked from outside and the pitter-patter of rain was obvious with the stunned silence from everyone.
Out of the corner of her eye, Anna saw Elsa's shoulders tense. The lining of her jaw clenched and her fingers hovered over the keys.
Anna frowned, all light-hearted merit disappearing when she noticed an agitated flicker in Elsa's blue eyes.
Right, she hates the rain. Here I was moping and joking around while it's raining cats and dogs. Elsa gets so distressed during this type of weather. I wonder if she would tell me why if I asked?
Anna reached over and clasped one of the blonde's hands. Elsa jerked in surprise and her head whirled around, their gazes locking. The redhead rubbed the back of Elsa's hand, smiling timidly. She whispered, "Hey. Hey, Elsa, it'll be okay. Maybe it'll clear up this afternoon? You never know."
There was a long moment of silence, filled only by the resume of surrounding noise from their colleagues as their professor's voice droned on.
At last, Elsa hummed and glanced down at their hands. She upturned her palm and laced their fingers together, stroking Anna's skin back just as delicately. Still, her words were low and lacked any real cheer when she mumbled, "I guess."
Anna lowered her head to meet the blonde's downward gaze, biting her lip. "Do you want to go get lunch today? We can go wherever you'd like." The glaze over icy-blue eyes vanished and they refocused on her. Anna grinned more strongly and, with a quick glance around to make sure no one was watching them, bent down and lifted their joined hands. She pecked the top of Elsa's hand, lips brushing over the blonde's pale knuckles. "My treat," she whispered.
Elsa smiled slightly and squeezed her hand, a delighted flush spreading over her cheeks. "Okay," she whispered back.
For a second, Anna thought that was all Elsa had to say. So she pulled back, sitting up in her seat with a grin and moving to look back at the front. Then she saw Elsa's eyes dart around, looking at everyone in much the same way the redhead had before. Gently, she tugged Anna's hand down under the desk, clasping her fingers more firmly, and leaned over in her chair.
Anna gasped, eyes widening when she felt cool, red lips brush over her cheek, lingering for a moment to murmur in her ear, "I'd love to have lunch with you. Besides, we did plan to have another date soon."
The blonde pulled back, amused when Anna just ducked her head and nodded vigorously, biting her lip to keep from giggling.
The remaining time for class couldn't have gone by faster.
In the final minutes, the professor put down his pen and yelled, "Class dismissed! Now I want you all to read chapters thirty-nine and forty for the next lecture! Don't forget to read and do the assigned questions and definitely do not forget to study for your upcoming exam."
There was a surge amongst the students as everyone packed their things, stuffing papers and books into bags and putting away laptops. Footsteps momentarily blotted out the sound of rain as everyone headed for the door.
Anna practically skipped out into the hallway, twirling on her foot to beam at Elsa. "Alright, I know the perfect place to eat lunch at!"
Elsa smiled softly, fishing in her bag for something. "Do you? I hope it's not that burger joint we went to on our first date."
Anna blanched, excited toe-bouncing coming to a halt. "Of course not Elsa!" She pouted and crossed her arms. "Technically that wasn't my idea in the first place and all of our other lunch dates turned out fine."
Except for getting sick last time, but that's beside the point.
Elsa chuckled and bent her head a bit. Anna sucked in a breath when full lips pressed against her cheek.
The blonde drew back, bottom lip pulled between her teeth. A part of Anna was inwardly pleased to see that Elsa's cheeks were dotted with a pink tint.
"I'm only teasing Anna. I'm sure whatever you've decided will be great," Elsa cooed.
Then she slipped something into Anna's hand. Anna blinked and looked down to find a cough drop. She rolled her eyes, but unwrapped it and popped it into her mouth without question. The skin wrinkling happily around Elsa's eyes made her heart flutter and she scrunched up her face playfully in response. Elsa giggled at the expression, fingers hovering over her mouth.
"You've spoiled me enough," Anna said around the lemon drop. Elsa just beamed and the closeness allowed her to nuzzle Anna's temple with her nose. A tingle ran down from the crown of Anna's head all the way to her toes and she listened to their synced breathing.
God, I don't think I would trade this for anything else in the world.
The thought shocked her and she pulled back a bit, eyes wide. Elsa's eyes flashed worriedly for a moment, but Anna clasped her hand and squeezed it gently. The redhead brushed back a strand of hair, looking down at their shoes. She wiggled her toes and mumbled, "I was thinking," Elsa leaned in closer to hear, "since, you know, getting sick kind of put a dent in our plans and you and everyone else seemdetermined to confine me to a bed if I so much as cough a little—we might not be able to go see the play. We could do something else—although we can still make plans to go to the play, if you don't mind."
The blonde sidled closer to Anna, looping their arms together. "I don't mind of course. We just need to re-arrange our plans. Though, I really would love to see what your troupe has in store."
Anna's eyes lit up. "Okay, great. Yeah, I'd love it if you could come see our play too. So if you just want to move our date back, that's perfectly fine by me!" Elsa smiled and nodded, her eyes twinkling. Anna flushed happily and said, "I need to go check up on my group today actually. I've been MIA for a while now and they're probably wondering what happened. Probably think I fell into a ditch and died." She winked and added, "And maybe I can snag us some nice seating tickets."
"Oh, you mischievous little fox!" Elsa laughed, cheeks pink. "Alright, so, did you want to check in with your group before we eat?"
Anna nodded, biting her lip. "If you don't mind?"
Elsa pecked her cheek. "Of course not."
Her breath ghosted over Anna's ear and warmed it, the chill in the air dissipating somewhat as her face flushed.
"Now where did you have in mind for lunch?"
Anna grinned and pressed herself even closer to Elsa, her jacket rubbing against the blonde's dark coat. But before she could say anything, a voice called out.
"So this is where you disappeared off to Elsa!"
Anna turned to see two women approach them. One of them was the dark-skinned brunette that she'd seen with Elsa outside the library a while back, but she didn't recognize the pale brunette next to her.
Elsa straightened beside her, pulling back a noticeable distance. Anna frowned imperceptibly, but with a quick glance down she saw that the blonde hadn't let go of her hand. The tension along her shoulders relaxed.
"Belle, Tiana," Elsa said. There was a slight hitch in her voice and Anna blinked curiously. Before she could dwell on it though, the other women—Belle and Tiana?—were already in front of them.
Anna fidgeted when they stopped and looked between her and Elsa. She didn't have a clue who was who. A thin finger rubbed circles on the back of her hand and she flashed her girlfriend a quick smile.
Elsa cleared her throat and gestured between all of them. "Belle, Tiana, this is Anna."
Anna curled her fingers in a little wave. "Hello," she said, biting her lip.
The woman she remembered from the library grinned at her and Anna felt the coil in her stomach loosen.
"I rememberyou. You're Elsa's new girlfriend right?" Anna nodded shyly. She held out her free hand and the other woman shook it easily. "I'm Tiana, it's a pleasure to—" she shot Elsa a smirk, "—properly introduce myself at last."
"Pleasure's all mine," Anna said, fighting back a blush on her cheeks.
The other woman—Belle, she deduced—also shook her hand. "It's great to finally meet you Anna. Elsa's never been one to be talkative about details so the rest of us have been wondering what this 'Wonder Girl' is like."
Elsa groaned and rubbed her forehead. "Meg's been talking with you two hasn't she?"
"Take it easy, girl. Meg's only mentioned her a couple of times," Tiana said, though her tone carried an undercurrent of mirth.
What does Wonder Girl even mean?! Anna screamed in her mind, glancing between the three. Belle noticed her frazzled look and smiled.
"All we asked is if she could tell us what you looked like," she said. "Don't worry, we didn't ask any other personal questions."
The giggle Belle and Tiana shared, along with Elsa's bright, sudden flush confused her. Anna blinked. Okay, I feel like I'm missing something here…
Elsa sighed and changed the subject. "I'm sorry I didn't sit with you two, but I was, uh…I was waiting- I was s-saving a seat for Anna and I didn't see her early so that's why I told you two to go on ahead without me. I..." The blonde trailed off, ducking her head. The blush on her cheeks darkened and Anna watched Elsa's friends exchange amused looks.
"Don't you worry, girl. We're not mad. It's normal to want to sit next to your girlfriend." Tiana winked and now it was Anna's turn to flush.
Oh. Oh! They're—! Wow, okay.
Anna nearly choked on her laughter, heart hammering rapidly. She tucked a lock of hair behind her ear and looked away, trying to find something to distract herself.
The rain outside had lessened. The glass doors no longer shook with the force of the wind and even the clouds had lightened up. There was still a brisk chill that penetrated the hallway, but now the sky looked less grim. She felt a twinge inside her and a part of her prayed that the coming winter wouldn't be so dismal. December was closing in and just the barest hint of sun behind the clouds made her hopeful.
The sky's awake.
Unconsciously, her hand tightened around Elsa's.
"—and then we were going to head out to lunch."
The blonde's soft voice drew Anna back into her surroundings. She blinked and turned to see Belle and Tiana nodding.
"Alright, you two have fun." Tiana smirked and this time Anna felt the heat in Elsa's palm rise. She rubbed the skin at the juncture of the blonde's thumb.
"Thank you," Anna chirped. "Again, it was really nice meeting you!"
Belle shifted her book bag and smiled, a twinkle in her eye. "We should all set up a girls' night out when we have the time. Y'know, get to know each other? You can invite whomever you like, Anna." Then she flashed Elsa a smile and a raised eyebrow. "And we can all just have fun."
Elsa squeaked beside Anna and looked away, pale neck an obvious red.
"Alright, alright, I think this has gone on long enough Belle. Let's leave these two to their lunch date," Tiana said, gently shoving Belle in the other direction.
"Ugh, enough you two! We're right here!" Elsa groaned, hiding her face with her free hand.
Belle laughed and waved, "Goodbye you two! Enjoy your lunch and see you at the next book club session Elsa!"
The blonde merely shook her head, muttering something under her breath. Anna grinned and waved back to the pair enthusiastically. "Take care! I'll talk with my friends about that girls' night out and—"
A fit of coughing suddenly overtook her and she doubled over, chest squeezing tight and lungs fighting for breath. Her throat stung and the soreness from before spread down to her sternum. Anna spluttered and thumped her chest, the blush on her face giving way to a painful flush. She clenched her eyes tight, gritting her teeth.
Ugh, maybe I'm not taking it as easy as I thought.
A cool sensation pressed against her forehead and back. Fingers rubbed and stroked her spine underneath her thick jacket. Another hand brushed aside her bangs and caressed her cheek.
"Anna, are you alright? Do you want another cough drop? Water? Should we sit down?" Elsa fussed, eyes darting everywhere as she pulled Anna closer.
Anna coughed once more before waving her hands away. "I-I'm fine. Fine, really, don't worry." She cleared her throat and grinned at the blonde, chest heaving slightly. "It's just a cough Elsa. It'll go away in no time."
Elsa frowned and opened her mouth, but was cut off when footsteps neared.
"You alright sugar?" Tiana asked, her and Belle reappearing by their sides. Both women checked her up and down, their brows furrowed in concern.
"Maybe you shouldn't eat out today," Belle said. She blinked and looked past the doors out at the rain. "That cough could worsen."
Anna groaned and rolled her eyes. "Trust me, I'm fine. I bounce back quickly. I'll get over it."
None of the three looked convinced—Elsa, least of all. The blonde's blue eyes searched Anna's face, bottom lip pulled between her teeth.
Anna grimaced. "I'm telling you, I'm fine."
"Just checkin' honey." Tiana straightened and grabbed Belle's elbow. "If you're sure you're alright, then we'll leave you be. Wouldn't want to interrupt your time together. Y'all should be getting onto your date then."
"But eat where it's warm," Belle cautioned, glancing outside again. "I don't think it's going to stop raining."
As if to prove her point, the doors rattled with a sudden gust of wind and rain.
All three of them shot Anna concerned looks.
Anna grinned awkwardly and patted her chest, hoping she looked more steady. "Sure, don't worry and thanks for your concern. I'll be fine!"
She felt a hand slip into hers and her eyes darted to the side. Elsa's shoulders were hunched up to her ears and she was gripping her bag tightly to her front. Her brow was furrowed and her lips were pursed into a thin line. Anna blinked and gave a more subdued smile. She swung Elsa's hand in her grip lightly and leaned over, pressing a soft, slow kiss to the blonde's cheek.
"I'm fine. I'm great, really I am," she whispered, closing her eyes, lips still hovering over slowly reddening skin. "Let's go and relax. I haven't told you where we'll be eating, so think of it as a surprise okay?"
Elsa angled her head and laid a small, trembling kiss against Anna's own cheek. "Okay," she said quietly.
Anna shivered at the feel of Elsa's eyelashes brushing against her skin.
"I think they're having fun already."
Both women jumped back, suddenly recalling that Tiana and Belle were still there. The other two women smirked and whispered to each other behind their hands, bursting into a fit of giggles when Anna and Elsa stared down at the floor, faces bright red.
"We should leave them," Tiana said, eyes twinkling like stars.
Belle chuckled and tugged the other brunette's arm. "Good idea, enjoy your lunch you two!" she called as they walked down the hallway.
"Oh hush," Elsa grumbled back, blowing at her fringe.
Anna giggled and—with a quick glance to check that Belle and Tiana had turned their backs—leaned over and pecked the blonde's nose.
Elsa went cross-eyed and her blush darkened. But her expression softened and she smiled shyly. Anna tugged gently on her hand and walked to the opposite exit.
"C'mon, soon as I'm done talking with my group, we can go to lunch. There's some place I want to show you."
They stopped just before the double doors. While the rain had lightened, it still came down in droves. Anna fumbled with her umbrella and was about to open it when Elsa pulled on her sleeve. She turned, curious.
The blonde was biting her lip, free hand playing with the flap of her bag. "I- er, well…"
Anna quirked an eyebrow, waiting. Elsa cleared her throat and fumbled inside her bag.
"There's something I want to tell you."
Anna frowned, the tone in Elsa's voice causing a quiver of unease. She rubbed the blonde's arm and asked, "Is everything alright?" She glanced sideways outside.
Is it the weather?
Elsa bit her lip and fiddled with Anna's sleeve distractedly. "It's nothing serious. Just that, well—" Anna tilted her head to the side and smiled encouragingly. Elsa took a deep breath and mumbled, "I forgot to bring my umbrella."
Anna's eyebrow rose again and she leaned back a bit, eyeing the blonde up and down. "You forgot your umbrella? How did you not get wet coming here? I brought mine and still got wet."
Though that's probably just me being me.
Elsa blanched and looked away, frantically rubbing her hands together. "W-well, obviously Meg dropped me off and Belle was more than willing to share her umbrella with me."
"Oh," Anna said, eyes wide. She blinked several times before shrugging. I guess even the best of us forget things.
When Elsa looked back at her, cheeks pink, Anna quirked an eyebrow.
"I was wondering." Blue eyes darted over to the pink object in Anna's hand. "I was wondering, if you don't mind—" Elsa pursed her lips and fidgeted with her bag's strap.
Realization dawned on Anna.
Oh, Elsa. Anna giggled and reached over. She felt Elsa twitch as her fingers cupped the blonde's chin and pulled her closer. Summoning her courage, Anna leaned over and kissed the corner of Elsa's lips.
Elsa gasped softly and shivered. Anna closed her eyes and let her lips linger for a moment, enjoying the silky texture of Elsa's skin, before pulling back.
This time it was her turn to chew on her bottom lip, waiting for the blonde to finish what she was saying. Although I think I have a good idea what it is.
"Do you want to share an umbrella?" Elsa squeaked, breathless. Her pupils had dilated a bit.
Anna's heart jumped in her throat and her fingers shook as she held up her umbrella. She giggled, "Well, we kind of have to silly."
Outside, the rain seemed to come down harder, the pitter-patter of droplets blocking out the sound of footsteps from passing students.
Still, the pulse of her heart in her ears and chest seemed thunderous.
Elsa turned to stare out at the campus grounds, momentary discomfort flickering in her eyes. She pulled Anna's hand closer, thumb and forefinger playing with the skin of her knuckles. Anna gave her hand a gentle squeeze, hoping to reassure her.
"You don't mind?" Elsa asked, looking at her with wide eyes. Her breath fogged on the door, reminding Anna of the increasing cold.
Anna swallowed, short of breath and throat scratchy again. She shifted closer to the blonde and tucked their hands into the pocket of her oversized jacket. A tease, a giggle, or any comment with merit—it all died on the way to her mouth, drying on her tongue and leaving her with only one thing to say.
"I want to share more than an umbrella with you," she mumbled, hoarse and shivering.
Elsa's eyes lit up and her face warmed with a smile. Anna moved to push open the doors, free hand moving to pop open her umbrella when the blonde stopped her by tugging her back inside.
"Wait, what? Elsa? Is something wro—"
Something silky and soft brushed against her cheek.
Anna stiffened, eyes widening. She watched Elsa unravel one end of her scarf and slip it over her neck. Elsa's slender fingers folded it neatly into a firm knot and she ended the action with a touch of her knuckles against the redhead's jawline.
"Since we're sharing," she whispered.
Anna gulped and nodded, ears warm. Together, they pushed past the doors and she opened her umbrella. The bright pink material shone like a spotlight against the gray weather and their dulled surroundings.
Elsa giggled in her ears and Anna felt a grin curling on her lips.
"Is that the same one you let me borrow a long time ago?" Elsa asked, eyes bright.
Anna angled her head, blood racing in her veins when their cheeks pressed against each other and the dimples of their smiles touched.
"The very same."
Even the rain couldn't drown out Elsa's soft laughter.
x x x
She exhaled, slow and soft, and pressed her forehead against the wall. Her arms dropped to lay limp against her sides and she stood there, teetering on her toes. The weight of her backpack was apparent against her side, straps digging into her shoulders. Her feet ached from running across campus and the shadows underneath her eyes were dark and heavy. Around her, students passed by, but their voices were dull and mumbled, her brain sluggish from the hefty amount of school work and lack of sleep. Everyone and everything blurred into an indiscriminate shape.
I'm so tired...
The one thing that she was aware of, in dim and fragmented thoughts, was the sound of the pouring rain. Outside the campus building, she could hear fat droplets of water splash against the pavement. They came down in waves, pitter-pattering against the concrete. The noise was a constant hush, buzzing in her ears as they dripped against the double glass doors, sliding down to the ground. The morning sky had been a dark and ugly gray and when she glanced out of the corner of her eye to the doors, she saw it was no better.
Brooding and stormy, she watched the overcast of heavy clouds—thick with rain—swirl overhead. The constant drowning shower only added to the heaviness of her exhaustion. Separate from all the chatter around her, the wind outside moaned and howled. The branches of nearby trees groaned and flapped in the breeze, leaves whipping back and forth.
She felt disconnected.
Something she hadn't felt in a long, long time. Caught between the disinterest of her peers and the raging storm, she felt alone and restless; weary and drained.
Anna pressed her cheek against the wall and shut her eyes for a moment. She tried to drown out (the irony of that thought wasn't lost on her) the pouring rain like her work-ridden mind dulled the sound of everyone around.
The stone wall was comforting against her skin. It wasn't like wood, which splintered and pierced her tiny hands until they were always left bandaged and cracked. It was solid, constant; a presence that wasn't fragile, that didn't feel as if it would break or slip from her fingertips.
It's cold.
A dull thudding spread from her temples. Flashes of childhood flickered behind her eyelids—the most prominent being the sensation of glass beneath her fingertips and the blurry voice of the matron calling her.
"Anna, stop looking out the window and come eat your dinner!"
Her heart pulsed in her head and she gave a raspy sigh, fingers twitching. The cold from the wall seeped into her skin, sinking underneath. Behind her eyelids, she continued to recall the gentle fall of snow to the ground—to an empty playground, swings and see-saws creaking noisily. The hush of winters past draped over her and, for a moment, the present melted away as she dozed.
Anna inhaled and exhaled, remembering the way the snow had looked on the grounds of the orphanage. The roof had been old and shaky, buckling under the weight, rotting in nooks and crannies. So unlike snow, which she remembered blanketing the whole world once a year—white, new, and crisp. Almost magical.
White. Magical.
Her eyes darted back and forth beneath her lids.
White.
The image of that lone figure sitting at a wayward bench, curled in and away from others. Disconnected.
Just like—
The slope of a pale cheek and slender neck, hidden behind locks of blonde hair, had pulled her forward. Her light complexion, marred by heavy shadows underneath her eyes, had been stark and almost ethereal against the gray atmosphere all around her.
There really had been something almost magical in the moment she'd seen her.
A faint warmth bloomed in her chest, her pulse rising and blood flowing to her deadened fingers.
She was...all curled up. Curled in. Alone.
The beat of her heart jumped and slowed. The tiny smile that had been on the edge of her lips stopped. Anna sighed and wrapped her arms around her chest, shutting her eyes tight.
The dreary look on Elsa Arendelle's face would have been invisible to anyone.
But for just a moment, the pouring rain had washed everything away and left it bare.
"She looks like she wants to cry."
The thought, unbidden, had spurred Anna into action faster than anything else in her life.
"I think you need this more than I do!"
The wide-eyed, confused look on Elsa's face had made her heart skip as she stumbled over her words. Weak in the knees, she had shoved her umbrella into the older woman's hands without concrete reason and had sped off. The brush of their hands—feather-like and short—had left her breathless.
She looked so sad, like something was hurting her. Even with no one around she was hurting. I just wanted to help.
Elsa's face, her eyes dark and cheeks gaunt, had looked so shocked when she appeared.
I just...wanted to help.
She hadn't even given Elsa a chance to speak, already around the corner before the blonde could fully comprehend what was happening.
But I probably scared her and looked like a total idiot. Ugh, you moron, did you have to be so pushy and nosy?
Anna whimpered and shivered, unsure if it was because the school building was so cold or if it was something else.
E—
"Excuse me?"
It was like the sound of a pin drop.
Anna's eyes snapped open and the world came back into focus.
The blurred murmur of students, professors, and other faculty all around her was suddenly loud and clear. The rain fell in harsh droves through the trees, splattering against the pavement. It streamed down the windows and double glass doors. The wind roared and shook the glass.
Anna breathed through her nose and exhaled shakily. Amongst the lull of memories and noise of everything else, she hadn't heard the click-clack of approaching heels.
The redhead gulped and turned slowly, pushing herself off the wall. She didn't lift her hands from the cold stone though, glad for the support when she saw who was behind her.
Elsa Arendelle looked so different than she had a few days ago.
She was dressed in a thicker coat this time, but it did no less to hide the blonde's slim figure than the light sweater she had worn the last time Anna had seen her. Her heel boots looked polished and shined, white work slacks tucked in neatly beneath her coat. Her hair was done up in its usual bun, but a few locks had been left down and curled. The nape of her neck was exposed, the soft baby hairs and white skin sending a quiver of unease down Anna's bones. To the redhead's surprise, Elsa's whole attire was accompanied and completed by simple, pearl teardrop earrings.
None of the exhaustion from before was present in the way she carried herself now, elegant and dignified.
Something—everything—about Elsa sent a nervous throb through her body.
Why?
In the short time they had had classes together, Anna had never seen Elsa look so professional and yet so readyfor something not professional.
She looks like she has a date.
The thought made her start and she became acutely aware that she was staring. Anna gulped, tugging on the string of her hoodie and feeling the denim of her jeans clinging tightly to her skin.
I better say something. I should say something. Okay, saying—
"I'm sorry to bother you," Elsa cut in, blinking once and looking down at her feet. "It's just that…" She hugged her textbook close to her chest, a slight flush of pink on her cheeks. From embarrassment or something else, she wasn't sure.
Is it...because of me? Wait, what? No, don't think like that. It's not possible. Wow, I'm still thinking like that. Stop. Now. Right now. Okay. Say something you idiot.
"H-Hello? Oh, um, hi. Hi there!" Anna spluttered. She choked back a nervous laugh and tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. Her fingers shook, the tips freezing cold against her cheek.
Elsa looked up and smiled. Not the polite smile Anna normally associated with the older woman, but something almost cordial. Her rouge lips pulled back, exposing a set of perfect, pearly white teeth and the skin around her eyes crinkled. A smile that was a little warmer than usual.
It made Anna's heart lurch in her throat, a sudden nauseous feeling overtaking her and making her quake with discomfort. She couldn't quite place why though. Her complexion flopped between a dark flush that spread over her cheeks, before going pale as a paper sheet. In the end, she looked like a stricken rat with red fingertips and white cheeks, eyes wide.
Elsa cleared her throat and shifted, juggling her textbook and bag. It was only then that Anna noticed the bright pink umbrella at her side.
Oh.
Anna straightened and bit her lip, stuffing her cold hands into the oversized pockets of her hoodie.
"I just wanted to thank you," Elsa began, glancing from her to the umbrella, "for letting me borrow your umbrella the other day. It was very kind of you."
She held it out the umbrella and Anna was momentarily distracted by the bareness of Elsa's left hand, alabaster skin peeking out from under the dark sleeve of her coat.
Isn't she cold?
Her eyes flicked up to see Elsa staring at her, expectant. The bright hue of her eyes stood out against the hallway's pale surroundings and the dark blue of her coat collar.
Wow. Her eyelashes are long. Were they always that long? Wait, stop it Anna. Focus.
"Ahem."
Anna jumped and squeaked. "O-Oh, right! It was nothing really," she said, grinning and praying for the roiling and coiling in her stomach to stop.
"You gave your umbrella to a total stranger," Elsa said, gentle. "I hardly think it was nothing."
Anna laughed and reached to take her umbrella. Her fingers brushed against Elsa's cool skin as it passed between them and she shivered, a rosy glow rising to her cheeks. Thank god my hands aren't sweaty and gross.
Elsa blinked at her curiously and Anna hurried to cover up her nervousness with a beaming smile. She tucked her umbrella under her arm and said, "Well, like I said, I saw you sitting there without one so I thought—" she shrugged her shoulders and giggled slightly, "—why not?"
Elsa straightened, spine stiff and shoulders firm, clasping her hands back over her textbook. The cordial smile melted into a small, polite gesture. "Still, I appreciate the thought."
Anna stuffed her hands back in her pockets and glanced down, at a loss for words. The cold air shifted into an awkward, tense atmosphere. She shifted her weight from foot to foot, brow furrowing as she chewed on her lip.
Elsa glanced away and fiddled with the top button of her coat. Teal eyes zoomed in on her earrings, watching the pearls swing slightly from the movement of Elsa's chin. She tightened her grip on the handle of her umbrella, looking back down at her sneakers. Her cheeks were burning.
"So I guess—" Anna started.
"I'm sorry, but I don't recall your name."
"—uh, huh?" Anna snapped her head up to blink at Elsa. Her brow was dipped in a slight frown and she was wringing her hands together again, gaze downcast. The picture of her looking so nervous, shoulders hunched up to her ears, struck a cord inside Anna.
Something in her chest throbbed again.
It was the same strange pull that had overcome her when she had first spied Elsa the other day, sitting alone. Her eyes closed and shadows moving over her face as the rain poured outside.
Different.
Anna's mouth was moving before she even realized it. It was working, snapped up and tripping from being slack-jawed, words falling from her lips like water.
"Oh! I'm Anna! Anna Bjorgman. We have literature and math together." She withdrew her hands from her pockets, the tips still bright red, and ran her fingers through her hair. "I-I sit in the middle to- uh, front row?" Elsa tilted her head at that and Anna nearly bit her tongue, her whole face bright red now. "I'm usually two rows in front of you. Not that you need to know that actually, but I felt I should tell you. For some weird reason. Although you really didn't need to know that. That just makes me sound arrogant. Like you should notice me sitting in front of you. Or something. Or that you should have noticed me. But there's no reason you should've noticed me of course, 'cause I'm just- some weirdo and yeah, wow, that is really arrogant. I should stop talking. I really should. I'm stopping now. Right now."
Anna clamped her mouth shut and rubbed her forehead. She looked down, horrified at her own rambling. "I'm so sorry, I'm a mess."
Elsa laughed, once and quiet. The sound washed over Anna and made her spine tingle. She sucked in a breath and looked up, the twisting in her stomach dissipating slightly.
The blonde was watching her, fingertips on her lips. The polite and distant look in her eyes—that aloof and almost cold expression—was gone. When she noticed Anna returning the stare, Elsa dropped her hand and entwined her fingers together, looking down quickly.
The shy expression on her face made the roiling of her stomach still and her lingering unease vanished. Her heart jump-started and a giddiness bubbled beneath her sternum. It was so unlike what she had seen of the other woman before that it made her smile, finally at ease.
Elsa looked back up and smiled apologetically. "I'm sorry, that was rude of me. I shouldn't have laughed. You're obviously nervous and this is a bit out of the blue, so I don't blame you for being, um, distracted. My laughing doesn't help matters. I apologize. Please, forgive me."
She gave a small bow and Anna hurriedly gestured with her hands. "No, no, no, it's fine!" Elsa frowned slightly and Anna giggled out of habit, biting her lip. "I, uh, get that all the time. I mean I get like that all the time! Well, but I get that all the time too—that reaction I mean. So uhh, don't feel bad! I don't mind."
Elsa's lips twitched and her eyes softened. "So, Anna then?"
Anna's smile widened, forgetting—for the moment—the rain and brisk air all around her. "That's me. I'm so sorry I didn't introduce myself properly last time. I can't imagine how weird and rude I must have seemed, bothering you when you probably just wanted to rest and be left alone—"
Elsa's eyes flashed and she stiffened, but the look was gone before Anna had time to question it. Her jaw clamped shut and the quiver of insecurity returned to her stomach.
Elsa dipped her head in courtesy, face cool. "Yes, well, I'm still grateful you gave it to me. I would have been stuck here longer than I'd have liked if it weren't for you."
That tiny smile edged back to her lips and Anna was, once again, distracted. She giggled and fiddled with her umbrella.
"Oh, I really didn't do much." The redhead tucked a lock of hair behind her ear and glanced away, the composed form of her classmate making the quivering in her stomach tighten into knots. When did the tables turn?
Elsa laughed again and its softness made her toes curl unexpectedly. "I digress, but that's your opinion."
Anna coughed and tugged on one of her braids, unable to meet Elsa's eyes. Out of the corner of her peripheral vision, she saw Elsa look away as well, one hand playing with a curl of hair. After a moment of them fidgeting and avoiding gazes, the blonde hummed to herself.
"Anna."
Anna jumped and glanced at her, eyes wide. "Yes?"
Elsa looked at her, gaze sharp and clear. She clicked her tongue, as if testing the waters. "Anna," she whispered and the redhead doubted that Elsa was actually speaking to her then. Something in the older woman's voice made her lungs seize. Elsa bit her lip, eyes glazing over in thought. She blinked once and nodded. "Ah, that's right. Anna—" the redhead shivered at the way her name rolled off Elsa's tongue "—yes, I remember you now."
Anna tensed. "O-oh? How?"
Is it because—
"Art History. The semester before? It was the only class we shared though, so I hope you can forgive me for not remembering who you are," Elsa said, her voice breaking Anna's train of thought.
The redhead flushed and looked down, scuffing her shoe against the floor. "No, no, it's fine. I can't imagine you'd have any reason to remember me." She laughed, but it sounded weak and hollow to her own ears.
"I beg to differ," Elsa cut in again, catching Anna by surprise. A light suddenly shone in those icy-blue eyes and Anna gulped. "You gave an impressive speech on Romanticism if I recall." The blonde's hands twisted and wrung together again. "I should have recognized you. I'm sorry."
Anna inhaled sharply, watching those long, thick eyelashes flutter against high cheek bones. She cringed and her heart stung when she saw guilt flicker in Elsa's eyes.
Wait, what? No, please no. Don't look like that. I wanted to make you feel better, not make you feel worse.
"We don't really know each other…" she mumbled, breathless.
Elsa blinked, face blank. Her brow furrowed and she glanced away in thought. The raindrops hitting the double doors and the people passing by grew in volume and sound around Anna. Then, the blonde's expression cleared and her lips curled just at the edges.
"No, we don't." Her cheeks tinged just the barest of pink and the blood roared in Anna's ears. Teal eyes dipped down to see one pale hand rise up and clutch a shoulder, almost instinctively. Elsa huffed quietly. "I'm sorry, I can't believe I forgot to introduce myself."
Anna bit her lip to keep from smiling. "That makes two of us…"
Elsa smiled, surprised and genuine. "I'm Elsa—"
"Arendelle, right?" Anna asked, words as soft as a whisper and just as shy. She bit down harder on her lip when surprise flashed over Elsa's face again, her mouth parting. The redhead hefted her backpack closer and giggled once. "I- your speech on business was so well-put that I couldn't stop listening. I-I didn't understand anything of it, but I just couldn't keep my eyes—"
Off...you.
Anna's whole spine went rigid and her jaw turned slack. Elsa blinked and tilted her head, smile still in place.
"It was a really good speech," Anna said, hoping against all hope that she was only imagining how hoarse her voice sounded. "I was really impressed."
"Oh," Elsa said and the skin around her eyes crinkled. The slight, pearl white grin returned and Anna fought every nerve in her body to keep from beaming like a cheap fluorescent light bulb. "Thank you."
Anna was sure her lip would crack if she bit down any harder on it. The redhead shifted and glanced over her shoulder. Sliding gently down the double doors, she could see that the rain had lessened to a drizzle and she inwardly sighed in relief.
"I'm sorry. Am I keeping you here?"
Huh? Anna turned around, eyebrows rising underneath her bangs.
Elsa gestured to the double doors. "Did you have some place you needed to be? I saw you standing here and I—" the blonde paused and held her bag closer. She tightened her grip on the strap, eyebrows knitted together. "Admittedly, I wasn't sure if I should approach you. You seemed very tired and I didn't want to bother you."
Anna blinked slowly and her whole body shuddered imperceptibly. The earlier state of exhaustion washed over her for a second. I wonder how much she saw.
The idea of Elsa seeing her when she had been all but leaning on the wall made her nausea roll back in her stomach. Ugh, I have got to stop staying up so late.
"Oh, well, no don't worry about me," Anna chirped, forcing the brief resurgence of fatigue down. "Just exams and work you know?"
The guilty look in Elsa's eyes vanished and her posture relaxed, but only just enough for Anna to notice. "I'm glad. I thought I was disrupting your break for a moment."
Oh good she just thinks I was resting for a bit. Well she's not wrong, but—
Anna grinned, more easily this time. "Well, I kind of was, but it was just for a quick ten minutes. Like I said, no big deal." Then, before Elsa could say anything else, she added hurriedly, "and I don't have anywhere I need to be. My next class doesn't start for—" Anna glanced at her electronic wristwatch, her eyes flicking back and forth. "About another forty minutes."
Elsa relaxed more visibly and her eyes twinkled, the corner of her mouth tugging upwards in a half-grin. "Alright, you've convinced me." She lifted her wrist and turned it, glancing at her own silver band watch.
Anna blinked and stuffed her hands back into her pockets, watching Elsa's forehead crease. Everything seemed to slow down as she watched the second hand of Elsa's watch tick away. The pitter-patter of rain grew down to a murmur, and then fell silent. People's footsteps seemed to slow to a crawl before fading away. Teal eyes flicked up to watch distracted blue.
Her chest felt tight. Her heart thudded hard beneath her sternum. A million and one thoughts raced through her mind. She dug her nails into her palm, pushing back the sudden urge to reach out and grab Elsa's arm.
Why did you look like you wanted to cry the other day? Why did you look so sad? Why do you look so sad now? Are you okay? Can I help you? Do you want help?
Then Elsa's gaze returned to her and the urge died, an ember flickering and puffing out. The blonde smiled politely and said, "It looks like I'm the one that has to be going now." She laughed once, but it lacked any of the pleasantry from before, distant and civil. "It was a pleasure speaking with you Anna."
Anna's lips curled into a small grin and her shoulders rose up in a shrug. "The pleasure was all mine. Thanks for returning my umbrella."
She held up the bright pink object uselessly for a second, unsure why the action felt weak.
Elsa smiled and dipped her head. "I suppose I'll see you around then?"
Anna grinned at the shine in the blonde's blue eyes. She nodded enthusiastically, feeling the smile stretch to her ears. "Yeah sure! We have classes together after all!" She laughed and rubbed the back of her neck, glancing away. "I'll definitely see you around."
Elsa nodded and turned away. The gray, dim light caught on the curve of her earrings and the urge to reach out again made Anna's throat clog up.
But Elsa's back was already to her, the blonde's heels clacking down the corridor as she walked away.
Anna lifted her hand, fingers dangling uselessly, mouth open, and words on her tongue. Elsa's form however, was straight and impassive. She was around the corner before the redhead could even figure out what to say. Anna's hand fell and her shoulders dropped, a sigh leaving her.
Coward.
For the second time in her life, she had watched her walk away.